Changing the color and shape of your teeth can seem like a big deal. Teeth whitening and orthodontics often need touch-ups or lengthy treatments. Porcelain veneers in our Garland, TX office offer a quicker, longer-lasting way to change the look of your teeth. Veneers are a cosmetic dentistry treatment that uses thin shells of porcelain that we bond to the front of teeth. Dental veneers change the shape, length, and color of your teeth.
What Can Veneers Treat?
We offer one or more veneers to cover a single tooth or all the teeth in your smile line. Veneers can cover:
- Gaps between teeth: You don’t need braces if you have one or multiple small tooth gaps. Veneers can close tooth gaps.
- Stained teeth: If deep tooth stains do not react to whitening, veneers can change your tooth color.
- Misshapen teeth: Irregularly shaped teeth may not impact your bite but can be an eyesore. Veneers cover these teeth for a more even look.
- Slightly crooked teeth: If you have crooked teeth but don’t need braces, veneers can make your teeth appear straight.
- Black triangles: Veneers can cover small gaps by the gums, also known as black triangles. Covering black triangles can create a fuller appearance.
- Short teeth: If you have a gummy smile or short teeth, veneers can add length for a balanced look.
Types of Veneers
Veneers can use multiple materials to change the shape and shade of teeth. Composite veneers are an economical choice. While they cost less than other options, composite veneers may not last as long as other options.
Lumineers are a type of veneers that do not require preparation. Minimal or no-prep veneers are thinner than other types of veneers. As a result, Lumineers are not best for crooked or damaged teeth.
Our office uses porcelain veneers made of translucent materials. High-quality porcelain mimics the natural appearance of teeth. Because these veneers require preparation, they are permanent. Once we prepare your teeth, you must be committed to covering them with veneers or another treatment.
Treatment with Porcelain Veneers in Garland, TX
Before veneer treatment, we ensure you are healthy enough for cosmetic care. During a cosmetic consultation, we will discuss your goals, budget, and oral health. We will provide treatments for gum disease, tooth decay, and other problems if needed.
Then, we will begin veneer treatment with tooth preparation. Tooth preparation involves removing a small portion of the tooth enamel. This preparation ensures a seamless fit, so the veneers will not look or feel bulky.
Then, we take dental impressions of your prepared teeth. We will also shade-match your veneers to other teeth in your mouth or your desired shade. Our office will send these specifications to a dental lab, where technicians will create your final veneers. In the meantime, we provide temporary veneers.
After several weeks, you will return to our office. We will remove your temporary veneers. Then, we will check the color and fit of your final veneers before we bond them in place.
How to Care for Veneers
Veneers provide a complete smile makeover. Caring for your veneers after treatment will ensure your brilliant results last. We will provide care instructions once you get your veneers. Common tips we provide patients after they receive permanent veneers include:
- Avoid Certain Foods and Drinks: Coffee, tea, wine, berries, tomato sauces, and other foods and beverages easily stain teeth. While veneers are stain-resistant, pigmented foods and drinks will affect the veneers over time. In addition, avoid hard and crunchy foods, like nuts and popcorn kernels, that can damage your veneers.
- Stop Bad Habits: Bad oral health habits increase your risk of damaging the veneers. Chewing on ice, biting your nails, or opening objects with your teeth can loosen or break your veneers.
- Brush and Floss: You can brush and floss your veneers like natural teeth. When you brush, use a non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. A good oral hygiene routine will keep your veneers bright and reduce the risk of tooth or gum infection.
Porcelain Veneers FAQs
Read answers to these popular patient questions to learn more about veneers:
How much are veneers?
The cost of veneers depends on the type and how many you need. When considering veneers, consider the materials, longevity, and budget. Some veneers may cost less than others but may not last as long.
Our office will also help you determine how many veneers you need. A full set typically requires only eight veneers. Veneers are not typically covered by insurance because they are cosmetic treatments. However, our office accepts indemnity plans and CareCredit.
How long do veneers last?
With the proper care, porcelain veneers will last fifteen or more years. Veneers are known as permanent because they cover prepared teeth. Your veneers should last if you brush and floss daily and visit our office for regular check-ups.
Do porcelain veneers stain?
Porcelain veneers use stain-resistant materials. Still, we recommend that you avoid foods and drinks that can stain, including wine, coffee, tea, tomato-based sauces, and soy sauce.
Can you whiten veneers?
No, you cannot whiten veneers. Materials like composite and porcelain do not react to whitening treatments. However, veneers can cover stained teeth to make them look whiter.
How long does it take to get veneers?
The entire veneer process can take three in-office appointments. Applying the veneers themselves may take one to two hours, depending on your number of treated teeth.
Can veneers get cavities?
Even if your veneers cover your teeth, you can still get cavities. A dental cavity will not affect the veneer itself but will affect your natural tooth. For this reason, you must continue to brush and floss your teeth, gums, and veneers. If you feel a change in the fit or comfort of your veneers, contact our office so we can examine your teeth.
Transform Your Smile
Are you interested in veneers? Call Cornerstone Family Dentistry at 972-848-7749 for porcelain veneers in Garland, TX. You can also schedule a dental appointment with Dr. Ben Giang online.