Porcelain Veneers: Preparation, Procedure, and Care

Whether you're looking to enhance a small imperfection or desire a complete smile makeover, dental veneers are a minimally invasive and fairly simple cosmetic dental treatment option that provides maximum impact. Wafer-thin shells that fit over the visible surfaces of the teeth, dental veneers offer a versatile array of potential treatment applications. 

What Can Dental Veneers Do?

Veneers are applied to the front, visible surfaces of the teeth to improve the aesthetic appearance of the teeth, creating the look of a perfect smile. Applied individually, dental veneers can mask minor imperfections. When applied in a set, they can completely change the look of an entire smile.

Dental veneers can be used to address a wide variety of aesthetic smile concerns, such as:

• Permanent stains or intrinsic tooth discoloration
• Chipped or cracked teeth
• Irregular tooth wear
• Abnormally sized or shaped teeth
• Tooth gaps
• Crooked teeth
• Asymmetrical smile
• Unbalanced facial features

Dental Veneers Process and Treatment Details

The treatment process for getting dental veneers can vary based on the type of dental veneers you select. However, Smile & Co. treatment processes follow these basic steps. 

Consultation and Preparation

The treatment process always begins with a consultation. During this appointment, Dr. Joves and Dr. Kalapsa counsel our patients and examine their teeth and gums to determine whether they are good candidates for dental veneers and to help them decide if dental veneers are the right treatment option 

When a patient decides to go forward with dental veneer treatment, we will prepare the surfaces of the teeth that will receive dental veneers. The preparation process involves removing a very thin layer of tooth enamel (about the same thickness as the dental veneers that will be placed on the teeth). This enables us to create a strong bond between the dental veneer and the patient's teeth while also allowing the veneers to sit flush with the teeth for a more natural effect. 

We can use a variety of different techniques for preparing the patient's teeth (chemical abrasion, scouring, or drilling). The technique that we use depends on the type of dental veneers the patient will be getting in addition to that which is deemed most effective for the patient's unique oral anatomy. 

Digital Impressions and Smile Design

Once prepped, we take digital impressions that create a thorough and accurate representation of the patient's teeth. We use these specifications to design the veneers, select their color, and achieve the desired look. 

Veneer Placement and Adjustment

Veneers are manufactured in a dental laboratory, and once they are ready, we schedule the patient for another appointment. During this appointment, we place the veneers and use sturdy dental cement to create a strong bond. We can then adjust the veneers in our office until the perfect look has been achieved. 

What You Should Know Before Getting Dental Veneers

Dental Veneer Benefits and Limitations

Dental veneers are natural-looking and stain-resistant. They offer a big payoff, in terms of smile aesthetics and confidence. However, they do have one primary drawback, they are typically considered a permanent treatment option because of the amount of tooth enamel that must be removed before veneer placement. 

Different Types of Veneers

There are several different types of dental veneers available. The most popular include porcelain veneers, Lumineers, and composite veneers. Depending on the patient's needs, composite veneers can sometimes be applied without much tooth preparation, meaning they are sometimes available as a temporary treatment option. 

Dental Veneer Maintenance Tips

Dental veneers are designed to be long-lasting, as they are made from durable dental prosthetic materials. Depending on the type of veneers you get, they last an average of five to 15 years, with porcelain veneers lasting longer than composite resin veneers. 

Since they are a permanent treatment, you will need to maintain your veneers for life. To extend their natural lifespan, avoid highly pigmented foods and drinks, practice good oral hygiene, visit the dentist every six months, and refrain from chewing on hard objects or using your teeth as tools. 

If you notice that a veneer is becoming loose, is stained, or has fallen off, you should visit Dr. Joves right away so that we can protect your investment and restore your smile. 

How Much Dental Veneers Cost

The cost of dental veneers varies depending on the type of veneer and the tooth receiving treatment. On average, veneers can range from $900 to $3,500 per tooth. Our team is here to help you navigate your insurance benefits and provide a personalized cost estimate before you begin treatment.

If you’re curious about veneers but not ready to visit in person, you can start with a virtual consultation from the comfort of your home. We’ll discuss your goals, go over pricing, and answer any questions you have.

For those without insurance, we also offer a Membership Plan that helps make dental care more affordable. It includes discounts on various treatments, so getting the smile you want can be a little easier on your budget.

Alternative Cosmetic Treatment Options

Dental veneers are purely cosmetic, and some patients can benefit from dental treatments that offer both cosmetic and restorative benefits, such as dental crowns, bridges, bonding, or dental implants. 

Dental Veneer Consultations and Treatment With Our Cosmetic Dentist in Roseville and Folsom, CA

If you're tired of living with smile imperfections, then dental veneers might be the right treatment for you. We can work with you to enhance your smile and elevate your features with a custom-designed cosmetic dental treatment plan. To learn more about veneers, we welcome you to request a consultation with a Smile & Co. dentist.