Porcelain Veneers

The many potential benefits offered by porcelain veneers are some of the major reasons why this treatment is so common at our practice. Porcelain veneers can effectively address teeth affected by:

• Spaces and gaps between the teeth
• Chips and cracks
• Dark stains and discoloration
• Asymmetry
• Excessive wear-and-tear
• Mild misalignment
• Irregular shape

Fortunately, there are so many pros to a procedure like porcelain veneers that there are very few cons. In fact, one of the only disadvantages of this treatment for some patients is it’s irreversible nature—a small amount of modification to the natural tooth is typically required so it can properly accommodate the veneer. However, this issue is rarely a problem for most patients because the effects can provide such significant enhancement of smile aesthetics. Plus, with proper care, the results can last many years into the future.

When you come in for your initial examination and consultation with Dr. Trey Vereen, he will evaluate your needs and determine whether a porcelain veneer is the right option for you. If so, our cosmetic dentist will develop a customized treatment plan and go over it with you. In most cases, a very small amount of enamel will need to be removed from the tooth that is being treated. This will make it possible for the veneer to fit comfortably and securely. After this is accomplished, we will create a digital impression of the teeth. Our office uses the state-of-the-art iTero^® digital scanning technology for impressions, which can create a precise blueprint of your teeth that allows Dr. Vereen to create and place the veneer with such accuracy that the results should look and feel very natural. The iTero^® system is also more efficient and more comfortable for patients since it involves no messy putties to produce the impression.

Based on the impression, the porcelain veneer will be custom-crafted and prepared for placement. The veneer is color-matched to surrounding teeth for a natural blend. Once the veneer has been tested to ensure the best possible fit and appearance, Dr. Vereen will affix the veneer to the visible part of your tooth with a durable dental cement. After one last polish, the procedure is complete!

A local anesthetic in the treatment area is typically all that’s necessary to minimize the potential for discomfort during porcelain veneer treatment; however, our practice offers sedation dentistry options for patients who may be particularly anxious about dental care.

Porcelain veneers offer some of the most long-lasting results of any cosmetic dentistry procedure. In fact, it is not uncommon for these restorations to last for decades. With that in mind, a bit of extra care must be taken to ensure their longevity. In addition to brushing and flossing daily, it’s important that you visit the dentist at least twice each year for check-ups and cleanings to maintain your oral health and to eliminate any plaque buildup around the edges of the veneer. Also, you should avoid using the veneers to bite down on hard foods. If you clench or grind your teeth at night, it might be a good idea to consider a nightguard. These customized oral appliances can protect your veneers from excessive pressure and limit the risk of damage.

The average cost of porcelain veneers varies from one patient to another based on factors such as:

• The number of veneers necessary to achieve individual goals
• The materials utilized
• The amount of tooth modification required
• The location of the affected teeth

Once our dentist has created your customized porcelain veneer treatment plan during the initial consultation, a friendly member of our dental team will calculate a cost estimate that takes all associated expenses into account. We will be happy to talk with you about the many payment methods we accept, and we look forward to answering any questions you may have. We can also discuss dental financing options such as CareCredit^®, which offers qualified applicants a comprehensive selection of monthly payment plans that can make paying for treatment as budget-friendly as possible.

Do you have questions about whether porcelain veneers are right for your needs? Please don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Vereen today. We can provide you with more information about this advanced procedure, or assist you with scheduling an appointment.