Restoring Smiles with Veneers

Smiles are important to our social lives, creating or crushing confidence. For many with chipped, broken, or missing teeth, porcelain veneers are the best option for restoring smiles and their confidence. Such procedures can be critical not only to self esteem and social success, but even to finding and sustaining a job. Here, we’ll look closely at the porcelain veneers procedure through the eyes of a cosmetic dentist.

What Are Porcelain Veneers?

In the field of cosmetic dentistry porcelain veneers are one of the most popular procedures. Dental veneers are thin, cuustom shells made from porcelain that cover the front surface of the teeth. They are used to mask chips and other imperfections and usually last for five to ten years.

The Porcelain Veneers Procedure

First, a cosmetic dentist takes X rays and makes impressions of the patient’s teeth. Before fitting of porcelain veneers teeth must lose a half millimeter of enamel from the surface, compensating for the thickness of the veneer. The dentist then makes an impression of the tooth and sends it to a dental laboratory where the veneer is constructed. The veneers are usually received after one or two weeks. When the patient returns to the office, the veneer is temporarily placed for fit and color examination. The dentist may make a few adjustments before cleaning polishing, and etching the tooth. Then, a special cement is applied to the veneer which is bonded to the patient’s tooth. Once it’s in position, the dentist applies a special light beam to the veneer, activating chemicals which cause the cement to harden very quickly.

How Much Are Porcelain Veneers?

The cost of a porcelain veneers procedure varies based on the part of the country where the veneer takes place and the extent of the procedure. Usually, however, they range from $500 to $1300 per tooth. This cost is usually not covered by dental insurance.

What Are the Benefits of a Porcelain Veneers Procedure?

Veneers provide a natural tooth appearance and are tolerated well by gum tissue. They are also stain resistant and can be created to make dark teeth appear whiter. They also offer a conservative approach to changing a tooth’s color and shape, avoiding the extensive shaping prior to installation required by crowns.

Are There Any Drawbacks to a Porcelain Veneers Procedure?

Yes. The procedure is not reversible and not repairable if they chip or crack. Because they require removal of enamel, they sometimes result in sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages. Some patients complain that veneers don’t match the color of their teeth, an effect exacerbated by future whitening procedures, as the color cannot be changed.

Porcelain veneers can restore self esteem to those with discolored or broken teeth, though at significant financial cost. Talk to your dentist about veneers and any other options that might bring your smile and your confidence back. Continue your research here: www.cosmeticdentistaustintexas.com