Common Questions About Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are very popular and commonly used in cosmetic dentistry. Many people around the world benefit from cosmetic dentistry and feel more confident afterwards. There are even more people that are interested in this type of dentistry, but uncertain what the dental procedure entails for their smile. Below, you will find some of the most commonly asked questions regarding porcelain veneers.

What Are Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain veneers are custom-made wafer thin pieces of porcelain, that are bonded to the front of your teeth. This allows the dentist to change the color, shape, length, and size of your teeth. Porcelain veneers reflect light in a very natural way. For many, porcelain veneers are performed in multiples usually on the front 2-8 teeth. Some people may only require one to correct a flawed tooth. 

Who Is A Good Candidate For Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain veneers are used to correct cosmetic issues with a person’s smile. They are created with a translucency that mimics natural teeth. Porcelain veneers are sometimes referred to as “instant orthodontics” for their ability to correct mildly crooked or small teeth. These veneers also have the ability to close spaces between teeth (also called diastemas), restore chipped teeth or even to change the color of teeth.

Most people are good candidates for porcelain veneers, however, patients with tooth decay, periodontal disease, heavy clenching, or severe misalignment of teeth are usually not good candidates. Patients who have a history of bruxism (tooth grinding) may end up cracking their veneers. Although if you only grind at night, you can wear a mouth guard to protect the porcelain veneers. This should be discussed with your dentist first.

The Porcelain Veneers Procedure

Once you have decided that you want porcelain veneers, your dentist will take study models of your teeth. The reason for this is that your dentist will be able to give you a mock up of what your teeth can look like when the porcelain veneers are in place. At this time, you and your dentist can discuss the size, shape, and color of your new porcelain veneers. Once these models are approved, an appointment can be set up for the porcelain veneers procedure. A small amount of tooth structure is usually removed from each tooth to prepare them, but sometimes they can be done without preparation to the tooth.

Local anesthesia is generally recommended if there will be tooth preparation to avoid any discomfort. Once the preparation of your teeth is completed, your dentist will take an impression of your teeth. This impression will be used by the dental laboratory to create your custom porcelain veneers. Once the veneers are created, you will return to the dental office to have the porcelain veneers placed onto your teeth. Initially, your dentist will place the veneers to check that the color, shape, and size are as desired. If they meet both your expectations, the dentist will bond them to your teeth, creating your new smile.

How Do I Care For My Porcelain Veneers?

After having porcelain veneers placed onto your teeth, home care is more important than ever, brushing and flossing will help prevent decay around your veneers. Porcelain veneers are very strong, but it is possible to break or fracture them. The following activities should be avoided: breaking nuts with teeth, tearing open packages, biting and tearing it hard items, and chewing on ice or hard candies. A soft electric toothbrush such as a rotodent could be helpful in polishing them and keeping looking like new. Also, having regular dental appointments and cleanings with dental hygienists should continue as usual.

How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?

The longevity of porcelain veneers will vary by individual and the dental care that is provided. The general rule is they last about 10-15 years, although some can expect a longer lifespan for them. If a porcelain veneer chips, cracks, or shows any wear they can be replaced refreshing your smile.

Can I Stain My Porcelain Veneers By Drinking Wine?

No, porcelain veneers are resistant to coffee, tea and wine stains. Once a patient selects their desired color, the veneers will stay this way, without color changes.

Are Porcelain Veneers Expensive?

The cost of porcelain veneers will vary depending on where you go. The cost is generally reflective of the materials and lab used. Be wary of offices where the price seems too good to be true. You get what you pay for and using an inferior dental laboratory or an inexperienced cosmetic dentist might lower the cost, but will lead to earlier failure of the porcelain veneers. Studies have shown that almost half of all cosmetic dentistry needs to be redone. Porcelain veneers require high quality dental materials as well as an experienced cosmetic dentist. If done properly, you will enjoy your new smile for a long time.

Are Porcelain Veneers Covered By Dental Insurance?

Generally no, as porcelain veneers are considered a cosmetic procedure. Most insurance companies do not cover porcelain veneers.

Porcelain veneers can transform an ordinary smile to an extraordinary one. The information above should give everyone some guidance on what to expect if they are considering porcelain veneers. As always maintain regular dental examinations and professional cleanings to maintain your present and future smile.