Porcelain veneers are a type of dental veneer used to address cosmetic concerns such as discolored, misshapen or widely spaced teeth. Dr. Westermann places these high quality, durable and natural looking dental veneers in her Louisville, KY dentist office.
Often considered a “Hollywood Smile”, porcelain veneers can either dramatically change the look of your natural smile, or they can be used effectively to create a subtle smile makeover to hide a diastema (gap between the teeth), tooth damage or discoloration that will not respond to a tooth whitening treatment.
Porcelain Veneers: About the Process
Dr. Westermann will conduct a thorough assessment of your oral health to determine if you are a good candidate for porcelain veneers. She will discuss your concerns and goals before creating a personalized treatment plan designed to help you achieve the smile you desire as well as support lasting dental health.
The porcelain veneer process is typically completed in two visits:
- First visit: this visit will be the planning phase of treatment and will include tooth preparation and impressions, which will be sent to a dental lab for the fabrication of your custom dental veneers. Dr. Westermann will provide temporary veneers to be worn until your permanent restorations are ready.
- Final visit: Dr. Westermann will permanently place and adjust your new porcelain veneers, ensuring a comfortable fit and a beautiful new smile.
Porcelain Veneers: FAQs
How much do porcelain veneers cost?
Patients often ask about the cost of veneers or how much a single tooth veneer costs. There are several factors that go into the price of veneers, the first of which is materials. Other factors include the size and location of the tooth as well as the cosmetic goals of treatment.
Dr. Westermann also offers cosmetic tooth bonding for patients with minor concerns.
How long do porcelain veneers last?
Our goal is for your porcelain veneers to last a lifetime. After several years, it’s common to need some minor repairs or maintenance. You can ensure long-lasting veneers by maintaining a healthy diet, brushing and flossing regularly, and visiting the dentist at least twice a year for professional cleaning and examination.
Tooth bonding will not last as long as porcelain veneers. Most patients will need a “touch-up” procedure in about five years or less.
What are the pros and cons of porcelain veneers?
Porcelain veneers are incredibly durable and resistant to stains. They also look and feel more like natural teeth compared to alternatives like Lumeneers or tooth bonding.
Some patients may be hesitant about porcelain veneers because they are an irreversible procedure. If this is a concern you share, Dr. Westermann may suggest trying an alternative procedure, such as tooth bonding, which requires little to no tooth preparation.
Can porcelain veneers be used to fix slightly crooked teeth?
Yes, porcelain veneers can improve the look of mildly crooked or uneven teeth. They work best when the minor misalignment doesn’t affect your bite. Veneers can create the appearance of straighter teeth without the need for braces. Your dentist will check if veneers are the right option or if orthodontic treatment is better.
Are there any foods or drinks I should avoid after getting veneers?
We suggest you avoid biting into hard foods like ice, nuts, or hard candy, as they can chip the veneer. Limit dark drinks like coffee, red wine, or tea to prevent staining around the edges. You should cut tough foods into smaller pieces and chew with your back teeth. Good oral habits will help your veneers last longer.
Can I whiten my natural teeth to match the color of my new veneers?
Yes, it’s best to whiten your natural teeth before getting veneers. Veneers don’t respond to whitening treatments, so their color won’t change. Whitening first helps your dentist match the veneers to your desired shade. Only your natural teeth will respond to whitening if you already have veneers.
Will my veneers feel different than my natural teeth?
They might feel slightly different at first, especially along the edges. Most people adjust quickly, within a few days. Veneers are smooth and custom-shaped to fit naturally with your bite. If they continue to feel uncomfortable, your dentist can make small adjustments.
Is there any downtime or recovery after getting veneers?
There’s little to no downtime after getting veneers. You may have mild sensitivity or gum soreness for a day or two. Most people return to normal eating and speaking right away. Final results feel and function like natural teeth once you’ve adjusted.