Are you unhappy with the appearance of your front teeth? Porcelain veneers are a popular option in cosmetic dentistry. This simple treatment can transform the appearance of chipped, cracked, stained, slightly gapped, or otherwise imperfect teeth — all in just two visits to your Capital District dentist’s office. Keep reading to learn more about traditional veneers, including what the procedure entails, how long they last, and how veneers can sometimes be used in place of braces for an instant orthodontic effect.
How Are Veneers Placed?
Veneers are thin coverings that are bonded onto the front surface of the teeth that show when you smile. Traditional dental veneers are typically placed over the course of two visits to the dentist’s office. In the first appointment, we will prepare your teeth by making room for the layer of porcelain to be bonded to the surface of each tooth. Once a small portion of tooth enamel has been removed, an impression (or mold) is taken of the teeth. This information is sent along with the details of your treatment plan to our partner lab, where each veneer is crafted from a single block of dental porcelain. Porcelain looks, acts, and feels just like your tooth enamel, for the most natural-looking results possible.
You will wear temporary veneers in the time between appointments. Once the veneers have been manufactured and are ready for placement, you return to our office for the second appointment. Your cosmetic dentist will remove the temporary veneers and check to make sure the new restorations look just like they should. After any necessary final adjustments have been made, Dr. Page will apply a special bonding agent to the surface of the tooth and carefully place each veneer. And that’s it! You’ll be the proud owner of a stunningly transformed smile once the procedure is complete.
How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?
With proper care and maintenance, porcelain veneers can last for up to 20 years. They will eventually need to be replaced due to natural wear and tear and changes that occur with the gums and teeth over time. If a veneer breaks or chips earlier than this, it usually cannot be repaired since veneers are made from a single piece of porcelain. Rather, a new veneer will need to be placed. The process for a replacement veneer is as simple as the initial procedure.
Veneers vs. Orthodontics
In some cases, dental veneers can eliminate the need for orthodontic treatment altogether. Options like Invisalign or Six Month Smiles realign the entire bite or straighten out crooked or uneven teeth. When significant realignment is not required, however, porcelain veneers offer another option. They work by simply covering up slight gaps between teeth or a bite that looks misaligned or off-center. By helping you avoid braces, veneers can help save you money and also reduce treatment times by several months.
If you would like to learn more about veneers, we’d love to discuss what’s possible with your teeth. We look forward to getting started on your smile right away!
About Capital Smiles
Dr. Erin Page provide comprehensive dental services from the comfort of their state-of-the-art practice. To learn more about Schenectady porcelain veneers or to schedule an appointment, please do not hesitate to get in touch with the office at (518) 374-0317.