Are you looking for a long-lasting way to get a brighter and straighter smile? Ask your dental professional during a cosmetic consultation if porcelain veneers can help you. These cap-like shells attach to the front of your teeth to build a whiter, more even smile.
Despite the many aesthetic benefits of this treatment, some patients may feel nervous to undergo a dental procedure. Dr. Keith Boenning, a dentist serving patients in Towson, MD, answers common questions that can help you feel more comfortable about preparing for the procedure.
Preparing for Porcelain Veneers
One of the most common reasons for nervousness before a dental procedure is the fear of pain. It may make you feel better to learn that patients report no pain or discomfort during the porcelain veneers placement process.
Your dentist must prepare the surface of the teeth before the procedure, which involves etching into the enamel. They can give you a local anesthetic to numb the area. This is so you don’t feel any pain during this process.
Securing the veneers to the front of the teeth with bonding won’t hurt you. The dentist will also check your bite to ensure that porcelain veneers won’t disrupt your oral functions or feel uncomfortable on your teeth after you leave the dentist’s office.
How Long Does It Take to Get Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers will take more than one appointment to complete the smile enhancement treatment. You will begin with a consultation with your cosmetic dentist to ensure that veneers are the best option to help you accomplish your smile goals. This will last about 15 minutes.
Then your dentist will prepare the enamel of the affected teeth during a separate session, which may take an hour. They will take impressions of your smile to construct personalized veneers during this appointment too.
When the veneers are ready, you will return to your dentist’s office to have them secured to the front of your teeth. This may last one to two hours, depending on your unique dental needs.
How Long Will Porcelain Veneers Last?
With proper care and maintenance, porcelain veneers can remain in place for fifteen years. Though veneers can resist decay and staining, you should continue practicing good oral hygiene habits to keep your smile clean and healthy.
You should avoid abnormal pressures that can break or dislodge your veneers, like biting down on hard items. For similar reasons, you should talk to your dentist if you grind or clench your teeth.
What to Expect During Your First Visit
Your first appointment is all about planning your perfect smile. The dentist will examine your teeth and discuss what changes you want to make. They might take digital X-rays or photos of your teeth to help with planning.
This is your chance to ask questions and share any concerns. The dentist will explain how many veneers you’ll need and show you examples of different smile styles. Some offices even use computer imaging to give you a preview of how your new smile will look.
Temporary Veneers
After your teeth are prepared for veneers but before your permanent ones are ready, you’ll wear temporary veneers. These protect your teeth and let you test-drive your new smile.
Temporaries aren’t as strong as permanent veneers, so you’ll need to avoid sticky foods and chew carefully. They might feel a little rough or look less perfect than your final veneers will – that’s completely normal. If a temporary comes loose, call your dentist right away to have it reattached.
The First Few Weeks Eating With Veneers
Your new veneers will feel different at first when eating. Start with softer foods and cut food into smaller pieces until you get used to them. Avoid extremely hard or sticky foods that could damage your veneers.
While veneers are stain-resistant, it’s smart to limit staining drinks at first. After about a month, you’ll be able to eat normally. Though it’s always best to avoid chewing ice or hard candy to protect your investment.
Keeping Your Veneers Looking Great
Brush gently twice daily with a non-abrasive toothpaste and floss carefully every day so your veneers last as long as possible. See your dentist regularly for cleanings. They’ll use special tools that won’t scratch your veneers. If you play sports, wear a mouthguard to protect them from hits to the face.
Over time, your natural teeth might stain slightly while your veneers stay bright. Occasional professional cleanings will help everything match up and look normal. With good care, your veneers can stay beautiful for many years.
Are you Ready for Porcelain Veneers?
Boenning and Dancykier Dental Implants and Cosmetic Dentistry offer porcelain veneers and other cosmetic treatments to patients in Towson, MD. Dr. Boenning also specializes in general and restorative dentistry, including periodontal care. To schedule an appointment with our team of dental experts, contact our office by phone at 410-324-2294 or request an appointment online.