Often, our teeth lose their luster, through chipping, staining, or misalignment. If your teeth aren't looking their best, porcelain veneers are a great way to improve your smile.
What are porcelain veneers?
Veneers are thin shells of porcelain that are securely bonded to the enamel on teeth. They are used only for cosmetic improvement, and provide a very realistic look and feel.
Who makes a good candidate for porcelain veneers?
For the most part, anyone with stained, chipped, or misaligned teeth who wishes to improve their appearance is a good candidate. However,
porcelain veneers are not for everyone. If you have a severe misalignment or crack, suffer from gingivitis or gum disease, or habitually grind your teeth, porcelain veneers are not for you.
What is the cost of getting porcelain veneers?
They are quite costly, ranging from about $700-$1,200 per tooth. Most insurance companies will not cover the cost of
cosmetic dentistry, but many offices offer financing options.
How long does the procedure take?
Usually, the entire procedure can be completed in three office visits or less, depending on the severity of your issues. The first visit will be to discuss your options and costs with your cosmetic dentist, and make a personalized plan for your teeth. The next visit will involve preparing your teeth for the veneers, and the final visit (or visits) will be the actual placement of your veneers.
How long can I expect porcelain veneers to last?
Due to the nature of porcelain, veneers made of this material are long lasting and very resistant to stain when cared for properly. In general, you can expect your veneers to last many years.
Are there any risks involved?
There are always risks with any procedure that permanently alters the foundations of your teeth. However, with porcelain veneers, the risks are few and slight. There is a risk of increased sensitivity after the procedure, usually subsiding in a few weeks. While porcelain veneers are very hardy, there is a chance that they will eventually have to be replaced due to wear, or may break in an accident, which will incur further costs. Most importantly, porcelain veneers are irreversible, so be sure that you are completely comfortable with your decision, and have weighed your benefits carefully.