Porcelain veneers: A great investment in your smile and self-confidence!
Has a cup-a-day coffee or tea habit or behaviors like chronic teeth-grinding wreaked havoc on your smile’s appearance, resulting in unsightly stains and chipped teeth? Is the gap between your front teeth no longer “cute” (and only getting worse) as a “grown-up”? Have you always hated the shape or size of a particular tooth? Whatever the case may be, these cosmetic imperfections can be quickly, predictably, conservatively, and comfortably corrected with porcelain veneers at Williams Dental Studio in Stockbridge, Georgia.
Veneers are thin handcrafted porcelain shields worn on the front of the tooth which improve the appearance of teeth that are chipped, cracked, stained or worn. Veneers are thin as contact lenses, and are an aesthetically pleasing option of closing gaps, lengthening teeth, and providing symmetry to make your smile more natural. Veneers are intended to last for many years without changing color. They are one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in dentistry. Ask your dentist if veneers may be right for you.
Sink your teeth into veneers.
Like the many other services available at our studio, veneers start with a consultation and exam by Dr. Jessica Williams. Dr. Williams will work with you to determine if you are a good candidate for veneers, and she can discuss treatment alternatives with you, too. Generally, candidates for this procedure have healthy teeth and gums, but they are bothered by flaws in the smile. In addition to resolving the cosmetic concerns mentioned above, veneers can be prepared and placed on the front surfaces of the teeth to cover up small cracks and other minor spacing issues.
Since modern veneers are very thin, if you and Dr. Williams decide to proceed with this option, only a minimal amount of natural tooth structure or enamel is removed. This feature of today’s veneers helps to minimize sensitivity and the need for local anesthetic associated with the preparation process and the removal of enamel. However, a slight reduction in the tooth is still necessary to ensure the veneer fits on top of the natural structure properly. This helps to support the most natural-looking result and the veneer’s lasting strength and durability.
Our talented and trusted lab partners make the veneer. They use information gathered by our team to fabricate these restorations from porcelain. This ceramic material is typically used for veneers because it:
- “Imitates” the appearance and properties of natural tooth enamel very well
- Resists stains
- Holds up well with good care
Once our lab has made the veneer, Dr. Williams applies it to the tooth’s front surface and makes any slight adjustments as needed. It is then bonded or secured to the tooth. That’s it! From there, we can instruct you on ways to ensure your veneers remain in good condition. Such care may include providing you with things like custom “night guards.” These oral appliances are worn during sleep to protect the teeth and dental work from chips caused by grinding the teeth and clenching the jaws. This behavior typically occurs during sleep, and many patients do not even realize they have this condition (called “bruxism”) until after Dr. Williams points out the telltale signs like chipped teeth to them during a check-up.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Veneers
How Do I Know if I Need Veneers or Other Cosmetic Dental Treatments?
Veneers are ideal for individuals with chipped, discolored, misaligned, or worn teeth. If you have minor discoloration, teeth whitening might be a better option, and for smaller cosmetic issues like chips or gaps, dental bonding could be a more affordable solution. Veneers are best suited for patients with multiple cosmetic concerns or requiring a more comprehensive solution for severely damaged teeth. Consulting with a cosmetic dentist will help determine the best treatment for your needs.
Can Veneers Be Removed or Replaced If I Change My Mind Later?
Veneers are semi-permanent. While they can be removed, this often involves removing a thin layer of enamel, which changes the structure of your natural teeth. If you change your mind, your dentist can remove the veneers, but you may need an alternative solution for restoring your teeth. Replacing veneers is possible, and new ones can be crafted for improved appearance. It’s essential to carefully consider the decision as the process alters your natural teeth.
Will Veneers Make My Teeth Look Unnaturally White or Fake?
Modern veneers are custom-made to match your natural teeth in color and shape. Advances in materials, such as porcelain, allow veneers to have a translucent finish that mimics natural teeth. This ensures a realistic and natural look while enhancing your smile. With proper placement and careful design, veneers can give you a beautiful, natural-looking smile without appearing overly white or fake.
Are There Any Risks or Side Effects Associated with Getting Veneers?
Like any cosmetic dental procedure, veneers come with some risks. The most common side effect is temporary tooth sensitivity, especially to hot or cold temperatures, due to removing a thin enamel layer. Gum irritation can also occur if the edges of the veneers irritate the gum line. Patients who grind their teeth may be at risk of damaging the veneers. However, these risks can be minimized with proper care, maintenance, and regular dental check-ups.
Can I Get Veneers If I Have Existing Dental Work Like Crowns or Fillings?
You can still get veneers if you have existing dental work such as crowns or fillings. Your dentist will assess the condition of your current dental work to ensure veneers can be properly applied. If the existing work is in good shape, the veneers can be placed over your natural teeth without affecting the restorations. However, other treatments may be required before applying veneers if you have extensive damage or old work that needs replacing.
How Long Does It Take to Get Veneers from Start to Finish?
Veneers often require two visits to complete. During the first visit, your dentist will prepare your teeth by removing a small layer of enamel and taking impressions to create custom veneers. The lab typically takes one to two weeks to make the veneers. During the second visit, your dentist will check the fit and appearance before bonding the veneers to your teeth. The entire process usually takes about two to three weeks, depending on the complexity of your case.
Your confidence-boosting smile awaits at Williams Dental Studio! Call our team in Stockbridge, GA, today at (770) 506-2443 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Williams.
