Everything You Need to Know About Porcelain Veneers

Are porcelain veneers the right smile solution for you? We explain how they work, the usual timeline, and what to expect here.

More than one in two Americans say they feel insecure about their teeth, according to a survey. 58% of Americans admit to covering their mouths when they laugh due to the insecurities they feel over their teeth. These insecurities are most pronounced among younger people and can have a major impact on confidence in social, relationship, and career circles.



If you aren't entirely happy with the appearance of your smile, then we highly recommend porcelain veneers. In this blog post, we will highlight everything you need to know about this cosmetic dentistry option and how it can improve the appearance of your teeth and boost your self-esteem.

What Are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are thin, tooth-colored wafers. They are attached to the front side of teeth in order to improve their appearance and treat a range of cosmetic concerns. Dental veneers are similar in a way to false nails, which are applied to the surface of nails to improve their aesthetic appearance.

Some of the cosmetic issues that dental veneers can treat include:

• Broken teeth
• Chipped teeth
• Smaller than average teeth
• Unusually sharp or pointed teeth
• Discolored teeth



Dental veneers are made from porcelain (or resin-composite materials) and are permanently bonded to the teeth. Every case is different and patients can get a number of veneers. In some cases, a patient may choose to get just one veneer, while others may choose to get multiple (often between 6 and 8) in order to create a symmetrical smile.

What Are Porcelain Veneers?

When it comes to dental veneers, porcelain veneers are the premium choice. Compared to the aforementioned composite veneers, they are far more durable and are recognized as a more permanent solution. Porcelain veneers are also stain-resistant and provide a natural look.

In advance of placing porcelain veneers on the teeth, the front of the existing tooth/teeth will be filed down. This makes space for the veneer/s to be placed.

The next step is for an impression of the tooth or teeth to be taken, which will allow for the creation of a mold. This mold will be used to create a customized porcelain veneer.



The final step is to place the veneers on the teeth and cement them into place. Temporary veneers may be used on the teeth while waiting for the porcelain veneers to be created.

How to Prepare for Porcelain Veneers

During your consultation with your dentist, you will have the opportunity to discuss your dental and cosmetic goals, including the number of veneers you would like.

In some cases, another type of dental treatment may be recommended prior to undergoing the veneer process. There will also be a check on your overall oral health as people with tooth decay or gum disease may not be ideal candidates for veneers.

What Are the Benefits of Porcelain Veneers?

As a cosmetic procedure, porcelain veneers are designed to improve the appearance of teeth and the aesthetics of a person's smile. Compared to other methods of improving the appearance of teeth, which as braces, they are a quick, easy, and affordable option. Porcelain veneers are incredibly natural-looking and unless you tell people, no one will be able to tell that you have porcelain veneers.

For people who have experienced enamel loss, dental veneers are also a viable treatment option. Enamel loss can occur for a number of reasons, such as eating highly acidic foods, acid reflux disease, and over-ambitious tooth-brushing.



Other benefits of porcelain veneers are that they are a minimally invasive dental procedure and, as we will learn below, very easy to maintain.

What Is the Cost of Porcelain Veneers?

The cost of porcelain veneers will vary from patient to patient, given that the entire process is customized for the patient's teeth and smile. According to the Consumer Guide to Dentistry, the average cost of porcelain veneers is between $925 and $2,500 per tooth. Given that veneers can last for 10 to 15 years (or more), this represents excellent value for money.



During your initial consultation, we will be able to give you a better idea about the total cost of getting porcelain veneers, depending on your unique case and the number of veneers you wish to get.

How to Care for Porcelain Veneers

By taking a number of regular precautions, it is possible to increase the lifespan of dental veneers. These include:

• Do not chew on hard objects such as pens
• Do not use teeth to open packaging or bottles
• Wear a mouthguard when you play sports
• Use a retainer at night if you grind your teeth
• Chew harder foods using your back teeth



By following these precautions, you can help to ensure that your porcelain veneers last for many years and ensure that you have great-looking teeth that give you reason to smile.

Understanding the Porcelain Veneers Process

The above information breaks down what you need to know about porcelain veneers. They are a wonderful option for people who are displeased about the appearance of their teeth and smile.

If you are looking for a quality dental in Laurel, MD, your premier choice is Garland K. Davis DDS Family Dentistry. We offer affordable dental care and a range of general and cosmetic dental services. Dr. Davis has been in practice in the Laurel, Maryland area since 1984 and his focus is on providing unmatched patient care.

For more information on porcelain veneers, contact our team today and schedule a consultation. We look forward to speaking with you.