Porcelain veneers are known as a restorative cosmetic treatment option for patients looking to perfect the look of their smile. They’re made of thin pieces of porcelain shaped to match the patient’s existing tooth.
In fact, they’re specifically designed to restore and cover damaged areas in the smile. Veneers can be easily placed and are custom made for every patient. However, dental veneers are not permanent and might need replacement in the future due to natural wear.
When To Consider Veneers
Individuals may want to consider dental veneers for different reasons. Minor flaws in the smile such as chips, wears, or stains are often factors in veneer placement. If you’re unhappy with the look of your smile and would like to fix some imperfections, investing in dental veneers might be the right move for you.
Additional factors that may lead patients to invest in porcelain veneers include:
- Small or large teeth
- Crooked teeth
- Worn or chipped teeth
- Gaps in the smile
- Stained or discolored teeth
Treatment Process
Getting porcelain veneers is a simple, two appointment process. After determining if you are a candidate, Dr. Larson will begin your treatment which includes:
- Preparing the teeth receiving veneers by lightly buffing the enamel. This ensures the veneer can be securely fastened to the tooth and does not appear too bulky once placed.
- Making an impression of your tooth as well as choosing the right color that best matches your smile.
While your veneer is being made, we’ll cover the prepared tooth to protect it from damage. As soon as your veneer has been made, you’ll return to our Prescott Valley dental office for veneer placement. Dental cement will be used to secure the veneer to your smile, ensuring that you leave our practice with a beautiful, natural looking smile.
Although porcelain veneers are a quick cosmetic procedure, each case is different according to the needs of the patient. In saying this, we recommend scheduling a consultation with Dr. Larson. During your appointment Dr. Larson will be able to evaluate your mouth, determine the state of your teeth, and provide you with a more accurate treatment timeline.
Transform Your Appearance with Veneers
If you’re interested in improving the aesthetics of your smile, we can help. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Larson by calling (928) 772-8128. With veneers, your smile will project beauty and confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do veneers last?
With proper care and biannual visits to our Prescott Valley practice, porcelain veneers can still look great after 20 years. To maximize your results, we recommend avoiding foods that can stain, chip, or discolor the veneers. You’ll also want to brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and rinse between meals.
Regular visits to Larson Dental, in addition to an excellent oral hygiene routine, will ensure your veneers, gums, and natural teeth are in the best of health and improve the longevity of your stunning smile.
Is the veneers procedure painful?
The porcelain veneers procedure is completely pain-free. If you prefer, Dr. Larson can numb the area so you won’t feel a thing. After you receive your new veneers, your teeth and gums may feel sensitive for a few days.
Any discomfort can be relieved with over-the-counter pain medications such as Ibuprofen or a cold compress.
Can porcelain veneers fall off?
If your dentist doesn’t properly apply the veneers, they can slide off. With normal wear, the veneers may come off as well. That’s why choosing a highly trusted dentist, such as Dr. Larson, will ensure they’re properly applied.
A regular oral hygiene routine, in addition to scheduling biannual appointments at our Prescott Valley location, will ensure your veneers are intact and in their best shape. If a veneer falls off, be sure to keep it safe in a container and contact our office immediately by calling (928) 772-8128.
We may be able to re-adhere your veneer, or provide a new one. It’s important to avoid trying to fix it on your own as this may damage the surface of the veneer, or your teeth or gums.
What are the care instructions for porcelain veneers?
After receiving your new smile, you’ll want to follow a few guidelines to ensure the longevity of your new pearly whites. These include:
- Follow a regular oral hygiene routine by brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and rinsing between meals
- Schedule biannual visits at our Prescott Valley location
- Avoid biting into apples, carrots, or anything that might damage your veneers
- Refrain from biting into hard candies
- Stay away from bones when eating foods like chicken wings or chicken legs.
- Wear a bite guard if you grind your teeth
- Avoid foods and beverages that might stain your veneers such as coffee, tea, wine, berries, and certain sodas.