Many of us have small things about our smiles we wish we could change—a chip from years ago, a gap that’s always bothered us, or discoloration that whitening just can’t seem to fix. Feeling confident in your smile can change how you interact with the world, and you deserve to feel great about it. For those looking for a comprehensive solution, porcelain veneers offer a truly transformative option. They are custom-designed to create a seamless, natural-looking smile that addresses multiple concerns in just a few appointments. This article is your complete guide to understanding how veneers work, what benefits they offer, and whether they are the right choice for you.
Key Takeaways
- Veneers Are a Comprehensive Cosmetic Fix: They are custom-designed porcelain shells that cover the front of your teeth, correcting multiple issues like deep stains, chips, and minor misalignment in a single, transformative procedure.
- The Process is Permanent, and the Veneers Are Not: To get a seamless fit, a thin layer of enamel is removed, making the procedure irreversible. While durable, the veneers themselves will likely need to be replaced in 10-20 years, so it’s important to plan for this long-term upkeep.
- Success Depends on a Skilled Dentist and Solid Habits: The beauty of your results is tied to the artistry of your chosen dentist, so review their work carefully. After they’re placed, the lifespan of your veneers depends on you—maintain excellent oral hygiene and regular check-ups to protect your investment.
What Exactly Are Porcelain Veneers?
If you’ve ever found yourself admiring a perfectly straight, bright-white smile and wondering what the secret is, there’s a good chance the answer is porcelain veneers. Think of a veneer as a very thin, custom-made shell, crafted from durable dental porcelain, that is bonded to the front surface of your tooth. It’s designed to cover up the original tooth, effectively giving it a brand-new face.
This simple concept has a huge impact. Veneers are a cornerstone of cosmetic dentistry because they can correct a wide range of imperfections all at once. Whether you’re dealing with teeth that are chipped, cracked, permanently stained, or slightly misaligned, veneers offer a comprehensive solution. They are meticulously designed to match the color and shape of your surrounding teeth, creating a seamless and natural-looking result. Instead of undergoing multiple different treatments, you can transform your smile’s appearance with this one procedure. It’s a versatile and popular way to achieve the beautiful, confident smile you’ve always wanted.
How Dental Veneers Work
Getting veneers isn’t a one-and-done appointment, but it’s a straightforward process that we break down into a few key visits. Typically, it takes about three appointments from start to finish. Your journey begins with a consultation, where we discuss your goals and design your ideal smile. Next comes the preparation appointment. Here, we’ll gently reshape a tiny amount of your tooth enamel to make room for the veneer. We then take an impression to create your custom veneers and place temporary ones to protect your teeth. Finally, at your third visit, we’ll bond your permanent, custom-made veneers into place, making final adjustments to ensure a perfect fit and a beautiful result for your smile makeover.
What Are the Different Types of Veneers?
When you start exploring veneers, you’ll find there are two main materials used: porcelain and composite resin. Porcelain is the gold standard for its durability and natural appearance. It has a translucent quality that mimics real tooth enamel, and it’s highly resistant to staining, so you can keep enjoying your coffee without worry. Composite resin veneers are a more affordable alternative, but they aren’t as strong and may need to be replaced more often. Within the porcelain family, you might also hear about options like Lumineers, which are ultra-thin veneers that sometimes require even less tooth preparation, making them a great choice for certain cases.
Are Porcelain Veneers Right for You?
Veneers are an excellent solution for many people, but they aren’t for everyone. You’re likely a great candidate if you want to correct cosmetic issues like discoloration that whitening can’t fix, worn-down enamel, chips or cracks, or minor gaps and crookedness. However, the most important requirement is a healthy foundation. Before we can place veneers, your teeth and gums must be in good shape. This means you can’t have active gum disease or significant tooth decay. Think of it this way: you wouldn’t build a beautiful new house on a shaky foundation. Our commitment to your general dentistry and overall oral health comes first.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Veneers
Thinking about getting veneers can feel like a big step, but the process is more straightforward than you might imagine. It’s a collaborative journey between you and your dentist, broken down into a few key appointments. Here’s a clear look at what you can expect from start to finish.
Step 1: The Consultation and Smile Design
Your first visit is all about conversation and planning. This is your chance to share exactly what you’re looking for in a new smile. You’ll discuss your goals with your dentist, who will examine your teeth to make sure veneers are the right choice for you. This initial check-up might include X-rays or taking impressions of your teeth to get a complete picture of your dental health. Together, you’ll map out the color, shape, and fit of your future veneers, essentially designing your perfect smile. This is the foundational step for a complete smile makeover that truly reflects your vision.
Step 2: Prepping Your Teeth and Placing Temporaries
Once you’ve decided to move forward, your dentist will prepare your teeth for the veneers. This involves removing a very thin layer of enamel from the tooth surface—usually less than a millimeter. This step ensures your new veneers will sit flush with your other teeth for a natural look. After your teeth are prepped, your dentist will take a precise mold, which is sent to a dental lab where your custom porcelain veneers are crafted. This typically takes a few weeks. In the meantime, you’ll be fitted with a set of temporary veneers to wear so you can leave the office with a confident smile.
Step 3: Placing and Perfecting Your Final Veneers
This is the appointment you’ve been waiting for. When your custom veneers arrive from the lab, your dentist will place them on your teeth to check the fit and color. They’ll make any minor adjustments needed to ensure they look and feel perfect. Next, your teeth will be thoroughly cleaned and prepared for bonding. A special dental cement is applied to the veneer, which is then carefully placed on your tooth. A specialized light beam is used to cure the cement, creating a strong, permanent bond. The result is a beautiful, durable new smile that’s ready to be shown off.
What to Expect as You Adjust
After your veneers are placed, there might be a short adjustment period as you get used to your new smile. It’s important to care for them just as you would your natural teeth. A consistent routine of brushing and flossing is essential for keeping your gums healthy and your veneers in great shape. Try to avoid biting down on very hard objects like ice or pen caps to prevent chipping. If you tend to grind your teeth at night, your dentist might recommend a night guard to protect your investment. Regular check-ups are also key, so be sure to maintain your general dentistry appointments.
The Biggest Benefits of Choosing Veneers
If you’ve ever found yourself hiding your smile or feeling self-conscious about your teeth, you’re not alone. Many of us have minor imperfections we’d love to change, from stubborn discoloration to small chips or gaps. While there are many cosmetic dentistry treatments available, porcelain veneers stand out as a comprehensive solution that addresses multiple concerns at once. They offer a unique combination of aesthetic perfection and durable function, making them one of the most popular and transformative procedures in modern dentistry.
The real magic of veneers is their ability to deliver a dramatic change while looking completely natural. They aren’t just about making your teeth whiter; they’re about creating a smile that is harmonious, balanced, and perfectly suited to your face. Think of them as a way to get a complete do-over for your smile, correcting the color, shape, size, and alignment of your teeth in just a few appointments. This efficiency and the stunning, long-lasting results are why so many people consider veneers a worthwhile investment in their confidence and overall well-being. At Pearl Dental Group, we see firsthand how a new smile can change a person’s life, and veneers are often at the heart of that transformation.
Achieve a Flawless, Natural-Looking Smile
One of the primary reasons people choose veneers is their incredible ability to create a perfect-looking smile. Veneers are essentially thin, custom-crafted shells of porcelain that are bonded to the front surface of your teeth. This simple concept allows them to act as a mask, concealing a wide range of cosmetic issues. Whether you’re dealing with chips, cracks, deep-set stains that whitening can’t fix, or even minor crookedness, veneers offer a clean slate. The porcelain material is expertly designed to mimic the translucency and sheen of natural tooth enamel, so your new smile will look beautifully authentic, not artificial.
Get a Look That’s Uniquely Yours
Veneers are far from a one-size-fits-all solution. The entire process is a collaborative art form between you and your dentist. During your consultation, you’ll discuss the exact shade, shape, and size of the teeth you envision for your ideal smile. This level of customization means you can close small gaps between teeth, make teeth appear longer or more uniform, and create an overall look that complements your facial features. It’s a chance to design the smile you’ve always wanted, making a smile makeover a truly personal and empowering experience.
Enjoy a Strong, Long-Lasting Solution
When you invest in your smile, you want the results to last. Porcelain veneers are known for their impressive durability and longevity. The high-quality ceramic material is incredibly strong and resilient, capable of withstanding the normal forces of biting and chewing for many years. With proper care, including good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, your veneers can last for 15 to 20 years or even longer. This makes them a reliable and lasting solution for achieving and maintaining a beautiful smile, offering peace of mind alongside stunning aesthetic results.
Keep Your Smile Bright for Years
A major advantage of porcelain is its non-porous surface, which makes it highly resistant to staining. Unlike natural tooth enamel, which can easily become discolored from coffee, tea, red wine, or smoking, veneers maintain their bright, white shade for years. This means you can enjoy your favorite foods and drinks without constantly worrying about dulling your smile. Furthermore, the material is biocompatible, so your gums typically tolerate it very well, contributing to the overall health and appearance of your smile. This stain resistance simplifies your routine and helps keep your smile looking radiant long-term.
Breaking Down the Cost of Veneers
One of the biggest questions people have about veneers is, understandably, about the cost. Thinking about the price is a practical and important part of the process. While the final number depends on your specific needs and smile goals, we can break down the typical costs and financing options to give you a clearer picture. Investing in your smile is a big decision, and understanding the financial side is the first step toward making a choice that feels right for you.
How Much Do Veneers Cost Per Tooth?
The cost of porcelain veneers is calculated on a per-tooth basis. Nationally, a single porcelain veneer can range from about $900 to $2,500. This variation depends on several factors, including the specific material used, the complexity of your case, and the geographic location of the dental practice. Composite veneers are another option that typically comes at a lower price point. The best way to get an exact price is to schedule a consultation where a dentist can assess your teeth and discuss your vision for your smile.
What About a Full Set of Veneers?
When people talk about a “full set” of veneers, they usually mean the top 8 to 10 teeth that are most visible when you smile. A complete smile makeover with a full set of porcelain veneers can range anywhere from $12,000 to over $30,000, depending on the number of veneers and the details of your treatment plan. This is a significant investment, but it creates a dramatic and cohesive transformation. During your consultation, your dentist will work with you to determine how many veneers are needed to achieve the beautiful, seamless result you’re looking for.
Will Insurance Help Cover the Cost?
It’s important to know that dental insurance plans typically do not cover porcelain veneers. Because veneers are considered a cosmetic procedure, they are usually paid for out-of-pocket. In very rare cases, if a veneer is needed to repair a structural issue like a chipped tooth, an insurance plan might offer partial coverage. However, this is the exception rather than the rule. It’s always a good idea to check with your insurance provider directly, but it’s best to plan for veneers as a personal investment.
Explore Your Financing and Payment Options
Don’t let the numbers discourage you. A beautiful smile is more accessible than you might think, and many dental offices offer ways to make the cost more manageable. We believe everyone deserves to feel confident in their smile, which is why we discuss flexible payment plans and financing options with our patients. You may also be able to use funds from a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) for your cosmetic dentistry procedures. Be sure to ask about all available options during your consultation.
Why Veneers Are a Worthwhile Investment
While the upfront cost is a factor, it’s helpful to think of veneers as a long-term investment in your confidence and well-being. A smile you love can change how you interact with the world, from personal relationships to professional opportunities. Porcelain veneers are incredibly durable and stain-resistant, meaning your smile will stay bright and beautiful for many years with proper care. Unlike teeth whitening, which needs to be touched up regularly, veneers provide a lasting solution for a radiant smile you can feel proud of every single day.
How to Care for Your New Veneers
You’ve invested in a beautiful new smile, and you want to keep it looking its best for years to come. The great news is that caring for your veneers is surprisingly simple and fits right into your existing oral hygiene habits. With just a little attention to detail, you can protect your veneers and ensure they stay bright and flawless. Think of it less as a new set of rules and more as a commitment to the healthy habits that protect your entire smile.
Your Daily Care Routine
Your daily veneer care looks a lot like the routine you already know. The goal is to keep your underlying teeth and gums healthy, which is the foundation for long-lasting veneers. Make sure you brush at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. It’s important to use a non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste to avoid scratching the porcelain surface. Don’t forget to floss once a day, too! Flossing removes plaque from between the teeth and along the gumline, preventing decay and gum disease that could compromise your veneers.
What Foods and Habits Should You Avoid?
While porcelain is incredibly durable, it’s not indestructible. It’s best to avoid biting directly into very hard foods like candy apples, tough meats, or cracking nuts with your teeth. Instead, cut these foods into smaller, bite-sized pieces and chew with your back teeth. You should also be mindful of habits like chewing on ice, pens, or your fingernails. And while veneers are highly stain-resistant, it’s still a good idea to limit coffee, tea, and red wine, or at least rinse your mouth with water after enjoying them.
The Role of Professional Cleanings
Your at-home care is crucial, but it works best when paired with professional support. Sticking to your schedule of regular dental check-ups and cleanings is one of the most important things you can do for your veneers. During these visits, your hygienist will use special tools and polishing pastes that are safe for porcelain, ensuring a thorough cleaning without causing any damage. Your dentist will also examine your veneers to make sure they’re secure and that the teeth underneath remain healthy.
How to Handle Any Sensitivity
It’s fairly common to experience some temporary sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures right after your veneers are placed. This happens because a small amount of enamel was removed to make room for the veneer. This sensation usually fades within a few days or weeks as your teeth adjust. If you find the sensitivity is lingering or causing you significant discomfort, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We can recommend desensitizing toothpaste or check to make sure everything is as it should be.
How Long Will Your Veneers Last?
With the right care, your porcelain veneers can be a beautiful, long-lasting investment in your smile. Most veneers last between 10 and 15 years, and some can even last up to 20 years. Their longevity really comes down to how well you care for them. By following a consistent daily routine, avoiding damaging habits, and seeing your dentist regularly, you give your cosmetic dentistry work the best possible chance to last for decades.
Debunking Common Myths About Veneers
When you’re considering a big change to your smile, it’s easy to get caught up in rumors and misinformation. Porcelain veneers are an incredible cosmetic solution, but a few persistent myths can cause confusion. Let’s clear the air and separate fact from fiction so you can feel confident about your decision. Understanding the reality of veneers helps you set the right expectations and prepare for a smile you’ll truly love.
Myth: Veneers Look Unnatural
Let’s tackle the biggest fear right away: the dreaded “chicklet teeth” look. Thankfully, that’s a thing of the past. Modern porcelain veneers are masterfully crafted to look and feel like your natural teeth. Each veneer is custom-designed to match the unique shade, shape, and translucency of your surrounding teeth, ensuring a seamless blend. The goal of a smile makeover isn’t to give you a generic smile, but one that enhances your natural beauty. We work with you to create a look that is both stunning and authentically you, so the only thing people will notice is your radiant confidence.
Myth: Veneers Are a Permanent, One-Time Fix
This myth is a bit tricky because it’s half-true. The process of getting veneers is considered permanent because a thin layer of enamel is removed from your teeth to ensure a perfect fit. This step is irreversible, meaning you will always need to have your teeth covered with veneers or another restoration. However, the veneers themselves are not a one-time fix. While they are incredibly durable, they don’t last forever. Most porcelain veneers will need to be replaced after 10 to 20 years. Think of it as a long-term commitment to maintaining your beautiful smile, not a single procedure that’s done for life.
Myth: Veneers Are Indestructible
Porcelain is an impressively strong material, known for its durability and resistance to stains. That’s why it’s such a great choice for veneers! But indestructible? Not quite. Just like natural teeth, veneers can chip, crack, or break if they’re put under too much pressure. It’s important to avoid habits like biting your fingernails, chewing on ice, or using your teeth to open packages. With the right care and regular general dentistry check-ups to monitor their condition, your veneers can handle all the normal functions of daily life for many years. Just remember to treat them with the same care you would your natural teeth.
Myth: You Don’t Need to Care for Veneers
This is one of the most dangerous myths out there. While veneers themselves can’t get cavities, the natural tooth structure underneath and the gums around them are still vulnerable to decay and disease. Neglecting your oral hygiene can lead to serious problems that could compromise the integrity and appearance of your veneers. It’s essential to maintain a diligent routine of brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and attending regular professional cleanings. Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile, and proper periodontics care is just as important after you get veneers as it was before.
What to Know Before You Commit
Porcelain veneers are an incredible way to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted, but they are also a significant commitment to your dental health. Before you decide to move forward, it’s important to have a clear and honest picture of what the process involves, both now and in the future. Think of this as the essential conversation you need to have with yourself and your dentist. Getting veneers isn’t just a one-time procedure; it’s a long-term relationship with your new smile.
Understanding the full scope of the treatment helps you make a confident and informed choice. We’ll walk through the permanence of the procedure, the potential risks to be aware of, the need for future replacements, and how veneers fit in with other dental work you may have or need. Our goal at Pearl Dental Group is to ensure you feel completely prepared and excited about your decision. A true smile makeover is as much about feeling good on the inside as it is about looking great on the outside, and that confidence starts with knowing you’ve made the right choice for you. This isn’t about talking you out of it—it’s about making sure you’re all in.
Understand the Permanent Changes to Your Teeth
One of the most critical things to understand about porcelain veneers is that the procedure is irreversible. To ensure your veneers fit perfectly and look natural, a very thin layer of your natural tooth enamel must be removed. This creates the space needed for the porcelain shell to bond securely to your tooth. Because enamel doesn’t grow back, this step is permanent. This is why it’s so important to be certain about your decision. You are committing to having veneers or some other type of restoration on those teeth for life.
Know the Potential Risks
Like any dental procedure, veneers come with a few potential risks. Because some enamel is removed, your teeth might become more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures, though this sensitivity often subsides over time. While veneers are bonded strongly to your teeth, they aren’t indestructible. Biting down on very hard things like ice, nuts, or hard candy could cause a veneer to chip or come loose. This isn’t meant to scare you, but to help you protect your investment. Being mindful of these risks is the first step toward enjoying a beautiful, worry-free smile for years.
Plan for Future Replacements
While porcelain veneers are incredibly durable and stain-resistant, they don’t last forever. With excellent care, you can expect your veneers to last for 10 to 15 years, and sometimes even longer. However, you should plan for them to be replaced at some point. Over time, the veneers can wear down, or your gum line might recede, creating a gap. Thinking of veneers as a long-term investment that requires future maintenance helps set realistic expectations. Consistent general dentistry check-ups will ensure your veneers and the teeth underneath stay healthy for the long haul.
How Veneers Work with Other Restorations
Veneers are often just one part of a comprehensive approach to your smile. They can be designed to perfectly match existing dental work, like crowns or bridges, creating a seamless and natural look. It’s also important to consider the financial side. Veneers are typically considered a cosmetic procedure, so most dental insurance plans don’t cover the cost. However, if a veneer is needed to restore a chipped or damaged tooth, your plan might offer partial coverage. We can help you explore all your options and create a complete cosmetic dentistry plan that fits your goals and budget.
Not Sure About Veneers? Explore These Alternatives
Porcelain veneers are an incredible tool for transforming a smile, but they’re not the only option available. It’s completely normal to weigh your choices before committing to a procedure. Your smile goals, budget, and dental health all play a role in finding the perfect fit. If you’re looking for a change but aren’t quite sold on veneers, there are several other fantastic treatments that can address common concerns like discoloration, chips, or crooked teeth.
Thinking about your options is a key part of any smile makeover. Maybe your main goal is a brighter smile, or perhaps you just want to fix a small chip that’s been bothering you for years. Let’s walk through some of the most popular and effective alternatives to veneers so you can feel confident about your decision.
Composite Bonding
If you have minor imperfections like small chips, cracks, or gaps between your teeth, composite bonding is a wonderful and efficient solution. This procedure uses a tooth-colored composite resin—a blend of plastic and ceramic—that your dentist skillfully sculpts directly onto your tooth. The material is then hardened with a special light, bonding it securely in place. The best part? It can often be completed in a single visit. Bonding is less invasive than veneers because it typically requires little to no removal of your natural tooth enamel, making it a great choice for smaller cosmetic fixes.
Dental Crowns
While veneers and crowns both improve a tooth’s appearance, they serve very different functions. A veneer is a thin shell that covers only the front surface of a tooth for cosmetic purposes. A dental crown, on the other hand, covers the entire tooth like a cap. Crowns are the go-to solution when a tooth is significantly damaged, decayed, or weakened and needs both cosmetic restoration and structural support. If your tooth has a large filling or has undergone a root canal, a crown will protect it from further damage while restoring its shape and function.
Professional Teeth Whitening
Sometimes, all a smile needs is a little brightening. If your primary concern is staining or discoloration from coffee, tea, or just the natural aging process, professional teeth whitening might be the perfect solution for you. This is one of the simplest and most effective cosmetic dentistry treatments available. Unlike over-the-counter kits, professional whitening offers dramatic, safe, and lasting results. It can be a standalone treatment to refresh your look or the first step before other procedures, like getting veneers, to ensure your new restorations match your brightest possible smile.
Orthodontics
Veneers are excellent for concealing minor gaps or slightly crooked teeth, but for more significant alignment issues, orthodontics is the ideal approach. Treatments like traditional braces or clear aligners work by physically moving your teeth into their proper positions. This not only creates a straighter, more uniform smile but also corrects underlying bite issues that can affect your long-term oral health. While it’s a longer process than getting veneers, orthodontics addresses the root cause of misalignment, providing a permanent and healthy foundation for your smile.
How to Choose the Right Dentist for Your Veneers
Finding the right dentist is arguably the most important step in your veneer journey. This is the person who will be redesigning your smile, so you want to find a skilled professional you trust completely. Think of it as a partnership. A great cosmetic dentist will not only have the technical expertise but will also listen to your goals and work with you to create a look you’ll love for years to come. Taking the time to do your research upfront will make all the difference in your final results and overall experience. It ensures you feel comfortable and confident from the initial consultation all the way to the final reveal of your new smile.
This decision sets the foundation for a smooth process and a beautiful, natural-looking outcome that truly fits you. The relationship you build with your dentist matters. You should feel heard and respected, and all your questions should be answered with patience and clarity. A dentist who is passionate about their craft will be excited to show you what’s possible and will guide you through every decision without pressure. Ultimately, you’re not just paying for veneers; you’re investing in the skill, artistry, and care of the professional who places them.
Key Questions to Ask During Your Consultation
Your consultation is your chance to interview your potential dentist. Don’t be shy about asking direct questions to understand their level of experience. Start by asking how often they perform veneer procedures and if you can see a portfolio of their work. Looking at before-and-after photos of their actual patients is the best way to gauge their skill and see if their aesthetic style aligns with what you envision for yourself. You can also ask what type of porcelain they use and why. A passionate cosmetic dentistry professional will be happy to walk you through their process and explain the technology and materials they trust to create beautiful, lasting results.
Look for Proven Experience and Expertise
When it comes to your smile, experience is everything. You want a dentist who has a long track record of successful veneer cases and happy patients. Look for a professional who focuses on cosmetic and restorative dentistry, as they will have a deeper understanding of the nuances involved in creating a smile that is both beautiful and functional. A truly experienced dentist has an artistic eye; they know how to design veneers that complement your facial features, skin tone, and personality. They should be able to show you plenty of examples of their work and have glowing reviews from previous patients who can speak to the quality of their care.
What a Thorough Treatment Plan Looks Like
A great dentist will always start with a comprehensive evaluation of your oral health. Before they even talk about placing veneers, they will check for any underlying issues like gum disease or tooth decay and assess your bite to ensure proper alignment. Your initial consultation should feel like a collaborative conversation. The dentist should listen carefully to your concerns and what you hope to achieve with a smile makeover. From there, they will create a customized treatment plan that is tailored specifically to you. This plan should clearly outline each step of the process, the expected timeline, and a transparent breakdown of the costs, leaving you feeling confident and fully informed.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does the process of getting veneers hurt? This is a very common concern, and the short answer is no. Before your dentist prepares your teeth, the area will be completely numbed, so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. It’s normal to experience some mild sensitivity to hot and cold for a few days afterward as your teeth adjust, but this is temporary and should fade quickly.
Can I just get one or two veneers, or do I need a full set? You absolutely do not need a full set. Veneers are a completely custom treatment, and it’s very common for people to get just one or two to correct a single chipped, misshapen, or discolored tooth. The goal is to create a seamless look, so your dentist will work to match a single veneer perfectly to your surrounding teeth. A full set is a great option for a complete smile transformation, but the choice is entirely based on your personal goals.
What happens if one of my veneers chips or breaks? While porcelain is very strong, accidents can happen. If you chip or break a veneer, the first step is to call your dentist right away. If you can, save any pieces that have come off. In many cases, a single damaged veneer can be repaired or replaced without having to do anything to the others. Your dentist will assess the situation and get your smile looking perfect again.
Can I whiten my teeth after I get veneers? Porcelain veneers are highly resistant to staining, but they also do not respond to teeth whitening treatments. The color they are when they’re placed is the color they will stay. For this reason, we always recommend that you whiten your natural teeth to your desired shade before starting the veneer process. This allows us to create and match your new veneers to your brightest, most beautiful smile.
Why do I have to replace veneers if they’re so durable? It’s true that veneers are incredibly durable, but the environment in your mouth changes over time. After 10 to 20 years, your gum line might recede slightly, or the dental cement used to bond the veneer can begin to wear down. Replacing them ensures that the seal between the veneer and your tooth remains perfect, protecting the health of the underlying tooth and keeping your smile looking its best.
