Porcelain Veneers in St. Clair Shores

Porcelain Veneer: What Is It?

Sometimes called porcelain teeth, veneers are a cosmetic treatment. Composed of thin layers of dental porcelain, they adhere to the surface of your teeth and mimic their natural enamel. Because of that, they can restore the alignment, color, shape, size or spacing of your teeth.

• Alignment and Spacing — Small gaps and misaligned teeth can make you feel uncomfortable to smile. When the issue is minor, you might not need to wear braces to correct it. Instead, veneers can be made to adjust spacing and alignment problems.
• Color — Many things can contribute to dingy, discolored or yellow teeth. Some of these include coffee, tea, tobacco products and aging. Even some medications have these effects. When traditional whitening doesn’t produce the results that you want, veneers can make your teeth look natural again or brighter.
• Shape and Size — With a milestone event, job interview or family gathering around the corner, you want to look your best. However, you might feel too self-conscious to smile if you don’t like the shape of your teeth or they’re shortened or chipped. Fortunately, veneers fit firmly and snugly on your teeth to cover up these problems. Overall, they can enhance the shape of your teeth and make them longer.

Learn more about how veneers can restore your smile when you visit our dentist in St. Clair Shores.

How Much Do Veneers Cost?

Usually, dental insurers don’t include the porcelain veneers cost in their benefits packages since they’re a cosmetic treatment. Because of that, you’ll likely pay for the entire cost. Unfortunately, there’s no set price for veneers either. How much your porcelain veneers cost depends on the cost of living near you, if you go to a dental specialist, and the veneer type and brand you choose. Ask our dentist for an estimate during your visit.

How Do Veneers Differ From Crowns?

There are some similarities between veneers and crowns: They change the color and shape of teeth, adhere to your teeth, are permanent and are made with the same materials. However, a crown covers an entire tooth instead of just the front. In addition, the dentist usually removes more of the natural enamel so that it fits snugly. Because of that, porcelain crowns are a good option for teeth that require extra structure to withstand more force when you bite down or chew.

Porcelain Veneers: What Happens Before and After Getting Them?

The first step might involve removing a small amount of natural enamel from your teeth to ensure that the veneers fit right. The dentist usually removes less than 1 millimeter. However, it depends on the type and brand of veneers that you choose.

Next, the dentist will secure the veneers to the surface of your teeth with a special resin cement. Once in place, they won’t move and should look and feel like the rest of your teeth. The entire process is painless. Call us to find out more.

What’s the Prep Work Needed for Getting Veneers?

Before you get your veneers, the dentist will get a mold of your teeth. The lab will use it to create your veneers. When they’re ready, the porcelain veneers procedure can begin. Call our office for more information.

What’s the Timeline for Wearing Veneers?

Your porcelain veneers can last for up to 20 years if you don’t have any accidents. For instance, opening items with your teeth, such as bottles and bags, can damage veneers. When you avoid that behavior, you can keep them and your smile healthy.

Are Lumineers® Different?

Lumineers® are a brand of veneers. Compared to traditional veneers, they don’t require as much tooth enamel to be removed before application. They’re thinner too, which makes them feel even more natural. Most importantly, they retain their durability and longevity. Ask us for more details during your consultation.
How Are Veneers Cleaned at Home?

To care for veneers porcelain, you don’t need to take any extra steps apart from practicing good dental hygiene. This includes flossing once and brushing twice daily. However, consider wearing a night guard to protect the veneers, especially if clenching or grinding are the reason why you needed to get them. You should also be careful about eating foods that are hard because they can damage veneers that are on front teeth.

Set Up a Consultation to Get Veneers in St. Clair Shores

Would you like more information about veneers? We can help you decide if veneers are the right fit for you. Dial (248) 850-1809 to make an appointment to get porcelain veneers in St. Clair Shores.