If you're unhappy with the size, shape, or color of your teeth and professional whitening hasn't given you the results you want, porcelain veneers may be worth considering. Dental veneers from our Grandville, MI, cosmetic dentist are a popular cosmetic option for adults who want noticeable, long-lasting improvements without extensive dental work.
Before you schedule a veneers consultation, here's a list of answers to common questions patients often ask about this particular procedure.
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
Custom-made shells crafted from high-quality dental porcelain, veneers are designed to cover the front surface of teeth, providing an aesthetically pleasing appearance. Depending on what you need, our local cosmetic dentist can use them to fix tooth discoloration, small gaps in between teeth, chipped teeth, or worn enamel.
What Can Dental Veneers Fix?
Porcelain dental veneers can address several cosmetic issues at once. For example, is very much possible when discoloration doesn't respond to whitening. Patients also may choose to pursue veneers for small teeth, uneven edges, chips, gaps, and minor misalignment. Many people use veneers as part of a full smile makeover.
Should My Teeth Be Healthy Before Getting Veneers?
Yes, teeth and gums need to be healthy before . Cavities, gum disease, or weakened enamel must be treated by our dentist first. This means that in some cases, additional dental care is needed before veneers can be safely placed. This step helps ensure permanent dental veneers last as long as possible.
What Happens During the Veneers Procedure?
The porcelain veneers procedure usually takes multiple visits to our Grandville, MI, dental office. During the first appointment, our dentist will evaluate your smile, discuss goals, and prepare the teeth in line for veneers. A small amount of enamel is typically removed at this time to make sure the incoming veneers fit well and are not too bulky. Digital impressions are then taken so custom dental veneers can be created. Once back from the dental lab, the final veneers are bonded to your teeth.
Do Porcelain Veneers Look Natural?
Yes, veneers are designed to appear like natural teeth thanks to the materials used which give them the ability to reflect light. The color, shape, and size are all custom tailored by our dentist, which helps the veneers blend seamlessly with the rest of your smile.
How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?
With proper care, porcelain tooth veneers can last 10 to 15 years or more. Regular dental visits, good oral hygiene, and avoiding habits like teeth grinding help extend their lifespan. Our dentist may recommend wearing a night guard while you sleep if you are prone to grinding or clenching. That way, your results can be preserved for longer.
Should I Choose Veneers Over Other Cosmetic Procedures?
It depends on your goals. Choosing to get veneers for teeth can address multiple concerns at once, unlike whitening or bonding. For patients seeking dramatic improvement, veneers often provide more predictable results than other cosmetic dental procedures. Our dentist can help compare options during a one-on-one consultation.
Do Veneers Require Special Care?
Strictly speaking, porcelain veneers don't require specialized care. Brush, floss, and visiting our dentist on a regular basis are all still recommended. That said, while porcelain veneers are durable and stain-resistant, you do need to care for them as you would natural teeth.
For example, excessive coffee drinking can stain your veneers. Also, using your front teeth to bite down on hard foods such as ice can cause your veneers to chip if you're not careful. As long as you take good care of your dental veneers, they will last you for years to come.
