Porcelain Veneers

What Is a Dental Porcelain Veneer?

Porcelain veneers are thin pieces of porcelain that dentists bond to the front of a tooth to hide cosmetic imperfections. Veneers have changed a great deal since their invention; today, porcelain is stronger than ever and dental cement makes veneers a permanent, instead of a temporary, cosmetic enhancement. Dentists use veneers to change patient’s:

Tooth Color: Whiter teeth will make you look healthier, younger, wealthier and more attractive. Whether you need to change the color of one discolored tooth or you want to improve the color of your eight top teeth that show when you smile, we can help. Veneers are the ideal solution for teeth that do not respond well to traditional teeth whitening procedures.

Tooth Size and Shape: If you feel your front teeth are too small or oddly shaped, one of our dentists will suggest veneers to correct the issue. If you call us to arrange a consultation, your dentist can suggest a tooth shape that compliments your other features.

Alignment and Spacing: If you have one or two slightly misaligned teeth or unsightly gaps between your teeth, porcelain veneers can mask spacing problems that dentists used to treat with braces. Even though some people call veneers an instant orthodontic treatment, they only mask minor alignment problems, while braces permanently straighten teeth.

The porcelain veneers procedure is very simple. Depending on the type of veneers porcelain you select, your dentist may need to remove a very small amount of your tooth enamel so the veneer is flush with your other teeth. Once your custom made veneers are ready, you will return for a subsequent appointment and your dentist will cement the veneers to your teeth. Call our office to arrange a consultation and our dentist in Columbia will help you decide if veneers offer the smile enhancement you desire.

What Is the Typical Porcelain Veneers Cost?

Factors which affect your specific porcelain veneers cost include the number and type of veneers you and your dentist decide upon during your consultation. The degree of difficulty in placing the veneers also will affect your cost; it is more difficult to place a veneer to cover a gap between your teeth than it is to cover a discolored tooth. Call us today to schedule a consultation to learn more about our affordable veneer options.

Are Veneers and Dental Crowns Used the Same Way?

Dentists use porcelain crowns, which cover the tooth’s front, back and sides, to give a tooth added strength. You typically need a crown after a root canal procedure. Veneers are usually cosmetic, although they may give a slightly fractured tooth added strength. Your dentist will help you decide which type of porcelain teeth are the best option in your case.

How Long Do Veneers Usually Last?

If you care for your veneers, they will last for decades. Don’t use your front teeth to bite very hard objects or use your teeth as tools, which applies whether you have veneers or you’re using your natural teeth. If you play contact sports or grind your teeth at night, invest in a custom mouth guard, which your dentist can provide.

How Do I Maintain Dental Veneers?

Veneers don’t require any special maintenance. Use a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to brush them along with your other teeth. When you visit a dental office for a teeth cleaning, tell the hygienist about your veneers so he or she can use special equipment and polishing paste to avoid damaging your veneers.

Where Can I Find Out More About Porcelain Veneers in Columbia?

Call our friendly dental office a call at (410) 346-2350 and request a consultation. One of our dentists will help you decide if veneers are right for you.