Porcelain Dental Veneers
Porcelain dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells crafted from high-quality, tooth-colored porcelain. They are designed to cover the front surface of teeth, to enhance their appearance and provide strength and resilience comparable to natural tooth enamel.
Who Might Need Dental Porcelain Veneers?
Dental porcelain veneers are a popular choice in cosmetic dentistry for individuals looking to improve the aesthetics of their smile.
They are typically used to improve conditions such as:
Discolored teeth: Veneers can cover stains that cannot be removed through teeth whitening.
Worn down teeth: Veneers can restore the original appearance of teeth that have been worn down over time.
Chipped or broken teeth: Veneers can repair damage and improve the appearance of chipped or broken teeth.
Misaligned, uneven, or irregularly shaped teeth: Veneers can help create a uniform, symmetrical smile.
Gaps between teeth: Veneers can close small gaps between teeth.
How To Get Porcelain Dental Veneers
Whether you're looking to make a minor adjustment or undergo a complete smile makeover, here’s what to expect from the process:
1. Attend a Consultation
The first step is to meet with a cosmetic dentist, to discuss your aesthetic tools. The dentist will explain the procedure and a thorough examination of your teeth, to make sure that dental veneers are the appropriate solution for your needs. You may also undergo X-rays or have impressions made of your mouth and teeth.
2. Take an Impression
Before the veneer can be placed, about 0.5 millimeters of enamel from the tooth surface needs to be removed, which is approximately equal to the thickness of the veneer that will be added. The dentist will numb the area before trimming off the enamel. Then, an impression or model of your tooth will be taken and sent to a dental laboratory to construct the veneer — a process that usually takes less than a week.
3. Fit the Veneer
Once your porcelain veneer is ready, your dentist will temporarily place it on your tooth to examine its fit and color. The dentist will repeatedly remove and trim the veneer to achieve the proper fit, then adjust the color using different shades of cement.
4. Prepare the Tooth
Before permanently cementing the veneer to your tooth, your tooth will be cleaned, polished, and etched to allow for a strong bonding process.
5. Apply the Veneer
Special cement will be applied to the veneer, which will then be placed on your tooth. Once properly positioned, your dentist will apply a special light beam to the veneer, activating chemicals in the cement that cause it to harden quickly.
6. Make Final Adjustments
After the veneer is attached, your dentist will remove any excess cement, evaluate your bite, and make final adjustments to the veneer as needed. Your dentist may request a follow-up visit to check on placement and to make sure your gums are responding well to the new veneer.
How Long Do Porcelain Dental Veneers Last?
Porcelain dental veneers typically last between 10 to 15 years, and in some cases, even longer with proper care and maintenance. The longevity of veneers depends on several factors, including the skill of the dentist, the quality of the porcelain, and your oral hygiene practices.
Regular dental check-ups, proper brushing, flossing, and avoiding hard candies can extend the life of your veneers.
How Much Do Porcelain Veneers Cost?
The cost of porcelain veneers varies widely depending on several factors, including the location, the expertise of the dentist, and the number of veneers required. There is a significant cost savings by getting porcelain veneers in Latin America.
It’s important to note that porcelain veneers are generally not covered by dental insurance, as they are considered a cosmetic procedure. Some dental offices may offer payment plans or financing options to help manage the cost.
Make An Appointment at PSP to Find a Veneer Specialist
At Passport Surgical Partners, we act as intermediaries, to connect you to esteemed medical facilities and specialists. Our goal is to make you feel confident about the procedure you’re undergoing and ensure the highest standards of care.
We will coordinate your appointment, along with your, hotels, drivers, local guides and even excursions.
In addition to veneers, the cosmetic dentistry procedures we help facilitate include:
Teeth whitening
Orthodontics
Dental implants
Your journey towards a more confident and radiant smile begins with this important decision, and our team at PSP is committed to supporting you every step of the way.
FAQs About Porcelain Dental Veneers
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While porcelain veneers are generally safe and can last many years with proper care, there is a risk of potential damage to the underlying tooth. With proper oral hygiene, you can help prevent damage.
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The process of applying porcelain veneers is typically not painful, as the area is numbed with local anesthesia during the procedure. After the procedure, there may be some sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures for a few days, but this usually subsides quickly.
Over-the-counter pain medication can help alleviate discomfort. It’s important to follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions and attend any follow-up appointments to ensure a smooth and pain-free recovery.
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A small amount of tooth enamel needs to be removed to place veneers. If you have weakened enamel, veneers may not be a viable option. If you have gum disease or other issues with your gums, these issues need to be addressed before considering veneers.
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The teeth under veneers are significantly altered during the preparation stage, and while the veneers protect the surface and improve aesthetics, the underlying teeth are not immune to issues. Proper dental care and regular check-ups are essential to maintain the health of veneered teeth and address any potential problems as they arise.
The information and material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. Passport Surgical Partners is not a healthcare provider and no material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health care provider regarding any medical condition or treatment. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call 911.
The information and material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. Passport Surgical Partners is not a healthcare provider and no material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health care provider regarding any medical condition or treatment. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call 911.