Porcelain veneers are a cosmetic dentistry service we use at Tyler Family Dental to transform smiles. They’re among the most popular cosmetic treatments because they can treat many cosmetic problems. Dental veneers can be a one-step smile makeover to correct the little things you don’t like about your smile. No matter what you dislike about your teeth, porcelain veneers in Tyler, TX are a great option that will deliver a brighter, more even smile.
What are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made shells that we craft from high-quality dental porcelain. A dental veneer will cover the front surface of teeth hiding all cosmetic issues. Your Tyler dentist will meticulously bond each custom-made veneer to the teeth to improve their appearance. Teeth veneers made from porcelain provide a natural and aesthetically pleasing look
Getting Porcelain Veneers in Tyler, TX
Each cosmetic dental procedure starts with a consultation in our Tyler dental office. Our Tyler dentist will discuss your cosmetic goals to determine your candidacy for porcelain veneers.
We want to ensure that porcelain veneers are the right choice for your oral health needs. Once we determine this, we prepare your damaged teeth for the veneers. First, we will remove a small amount of tooth structure to make room for the veneers. The thin shells will lay flat on the front surfaces of your teeth, so they blend in perfectly with your smile.
Next, we will take impressions to send to the lab so they can custom-build the veneers to our precise measurements. Sometimes, we’ll provide a temporary restoration while we create your permanent one. The lab handcrafts each veneer individually to exact specifications.
Once they’re complete, we bring you back into our office for a fitting. If there are any little issues, we’ll adjust them so that they fit you perfectly. When you are happy with the results, we permanently bond them to your teeth. Our dentists can complete the entire porcelain veneer process in about 2 weeks.
Porcelain Veneers Aftercare
Recovering from your veneer procedure requires some attention to detail and special care. Immediately following the placement of your custom porcelain veneers, you may experience mild sensitivity to hot and cold foods or beverages. This sensitivity is typically short-lived, subsiding within a few days as the teeth adjust to the new veneers. It’s also common to feel discomfort or minor soreness in the gums. Over-the-counter pain relievers are all you need to manage these symptoms.
Most importantly, you need to maintain good oral hygiene to help your veneers last a long time. We suggest using a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste to avoid damaging the porcelain surface. Also, please do not chew on hard objects, such as ice or pens, to prevent damage to the teeth veneers. Regular dental check-ups are essential for your dentist to look after your porcelain veneers and ensure they remain bonded to the natural teeth.
The Uses of Porcelain Veneers
One of the main reasons porcelain veneers are so popular is their versatility. They can treat almost any cosmetic issue. We usually treat stained teeth with professional teeth whitening, but not all discoloration responds to traditional methods.
However, we can color-match a veneer to any shade of white you desire. Then, we can use the veneer to cover the entire visible surface of the tooth and hide all discoloration.
Age takes a toll on every part of our bodies. Our teeth discolor as the bright white enamel wears away over time. Natural teeth are also more prone to little chips and cracks. Porcelain veneers can repair chips or breaks, fill small gaps between teeth, repair disfigured teeth, and more.
Not only do veneers improve the look of your smile, but they can also help the structure of your teeth. If your enamel is eroding, a veneer can create a layer of protection against more erosion. Weaker teeth are more likely to chip or break, and veneers can protect them as well. They provide an extra layer of strength, protecting the teeth from new damage.
Since our dental lab crafts each veneer individually, they will fit perfectly the first time. We will make sure your new smile looking natural and even, while still taking care of your dental problems.
Porcelain Veneers Benefits
In addition to being versatile, porcelain veneers carry many other benefits. They’re a durable restoration that can last for many years. They can last many years with proper care, so you can be confident in their longevity. They’re also stain-resistant, able to resist bacteria even better than your natural tooth enamel.
Dental veneers are a great way to maintain a natural-looking smile. The tooth-colored porcelain mimics the translucent quality of your natural teeth. The custom crafting of veneers ensures they match the size and shape of your natural teeth. Dental veneers are resistant to chipping and cracking as well.
Misaligned or uneven teeth impact the integrity of your bite. An uneven bite can make it difficult to chew and speak properly. The longer you have an uneven bite, the more likely you are to experience discomfort and jaw dysfunction. Our porcelain veneers correct some of these problems to improve your bite and reduce the risk of complications.
How Long Should I Expect My Porcelain Veneers to Last?
On average, you can expect your porcelain veneers to last anywhere from 10 to 15 years. However, the quality of care you provide them will ultimately determine your teeth veneer’s lifespan. Proper maintenance includes:
- Regular dental check-ups
- Keeping your oral health in check with daily brushing and flossing
- Avoiding habits that can lead to damage, such as biting on hard objects or grinding teeth
Additionally, lifestyle factors such as diet and smoking can influence how long your dental veneers will last. While porcelain veneers are strong and resistant to staining, they are not indestructible. Over time, natural wear and tear will force you to replace your teeth veneers. We will provide you with care instructions to maximize the lifespan of your porcelain veneers.
Are Porcelain Veneers a Permanent Cosmetic Dentistry Treatment?
Although dental veneers are not technically a permanent solution, once you remove them from your teeth, you must replace them or find another treatment to protect your teeth. The process of receiving dental veneers includes removing a small amount of tooth enamel. Once we remove it, there is no way to replace it.
Getting teeth veneers requires a lifelong commitment because removing enamel is irreversible. However, porcelain veneers can last over a decade if you properly care for them. Due to normal wear and tear, you will eventually need to replace them.
Porcelain Veneers FAQs
Porcelain veneers can treat almost any cosmetic dental problem. Learn more by reading the answers to these commonly asked questions.
How long do porcelain veneers last?
Porcelain veneers typically last 10–15 years with proper care, though some may last even longer. Their longevity depends on factors like oral hygiene, diet, and avoiding habits like teeth grinding or chewing on hard objects. Routine dental check-ups also help maintain their appearance and durability. While they are durable, they may need replacement after years of wear or damage.
Are porcelain veneers permanent?
Yes, porcelain veneers are considered a permanent treatment because a small amount of enamel must be removed from the tooth surface to place them. This process ensures a snug and natural fit but makes the procedure irreversible. Once veneers are placed, the underlying teeth will always require some form of restoration. While veneers are durable, they may need replacement after several years.
Are porcelain veneers resistant to staining?
Yes, porcelain veneers are more resistant to staining than natural teeth. The porcelain material is non-porous, which prevents substances like coffee, tea, and wine from penetrating its surface. However, maintaining proper oral hygiene and avoiding stain-causing foods or habits like smoking can help preserve their bright appearance over time.
Can porcelain veneers be whitened?
No, porcelain veneers cannot be whitened with traditional teeth whitening products. Their color is set during fabrication and does not respond to bleaching agents. If your natural teeth become stained or discolored, your dentist can perform whitening treatments on them to match the shade of your veneers. Regular cleaning and avoiding stain-causing foods can help maintain your veneers’ appearance.
Do porcelain veneers damage natural teeth?
Porcelain veneers require some enamel removal, which permanently alters the natural teeth. However, this process is minimal and necessary for proper placement. When performed by a skilled dentist, the procedure is safe and does not compromise the overall health of your teeth. Good oral hygiene and regular check-ups ensure the long-term success of veneers.
Are porcelain veneers suitable for everyone?
Porcelain veneers are unsuitable for everyone, especially those with severe tooth decay, gum disease, or weak enamel. Patients who grind their teeth excessively may also not be ideal candidates, as this can damage veneers. A comprehensive dental evaluation is necessary to determine if veneers are the best option. Alternative treatments, like crowns or bonding, may be suggested for certain cases.
Transform Your Smile in About Two Appointments with Porcelain Veneers in Tyler, TX
Porcelain veneers are a great choice that can transform your smile. Tyler Family Dental creates smile design treatment plans for all ages. Give us a call at 903-623-8317 or schedule an appointment online today to learn more about the benefits of porcelain veneers in Tyler, Texas.