If you have concerns about the appearance of your teeth, porcelain veneers could be right for you. Chapel Hill cosmetic dentist Dr. James Furgurson and his associate Dr. White provide expert cosmetic dentistry treatments. We can help you improve the beauty, health, and function of your teeth with dental veneers. We provide porcelain veneers in Chapel Hill for a variety of cosmetic issues.
There are several types of dental veneers and materials used. The most durable and long-lasting restorations are dental porcelain. A porcelain veneer can cover imperfections on the front and sides of a tooth. We can commonly use veneers to:
- Fix gaps between teeth
- Repair chipped or broken teeth
- Improve the appearance of crooked or misshaped teeth
- Change the shape or length of teeth
- Cover stained or discolored teeth
About the Porcelain Veneer Procedure at our Dentist Office
The process for porcelain veneers begins with a comprehensive exam and consultation with Dr. Furgurson or Dr. White. We often use digital imaging to show you what your smile will look like before treatment begins. In some cases, your Chapel Hill dentist may be able to create temporary veneers, giving you the chance to “try out” your smile before we place the final veneers.
The porcelain veneer procedure usually takes 2 or 3 visits to our dentist office. First, Dr. Furgurson or Dr. White will prepare your teeth for the veneers by filing off a small amount of the tooth enamel. This creates room for the veneers to fit comfortably and securely in your mouth. It also helps the veneers grip the tooth and stay in place once we attach them.
Then, we will take dental impressions to send to the dental laboratory. We will send an impression of your teeth along with treatment specifications to a highly talented ceramist, who will hand-fabricate each tooth veneer. It generally takes about 2 to 3 weeks for your dentist to receive your final restorations.
At the final appointment, we will place the veneers on your teeth. Before permanently cementing them to your tooth, we will make sure it fits without issue. Once we get your final approval, we will cement it to your tooth.
Porcelain Veneers FAQs
How much do porcelain veneers cost?
Patients often ask about the cost of veneers or how much a single tooth veneer costs. There are several factors that go into the price of veneers, the first of which is materials. Other factors include the size and location of the tooth as well as the cosmetic goals of treatment. Chapel Hill Family and Cosmetic Dentistry offers porcelain veneers as well as the less expensive alternative, tooth bonding.
How long do porcelain veneers last?
Our goal is for your porcelain veneers to last a lifetime. After several years, it is common to need some minor repair or maintenance. You can ensure long-lasting veneers by maintaining a healthy diet, brushing and flossing regularly, and visiting the dentist at least twice a year for professional cleaning and examination.
Why choose porcelain veneers?
Porcelain veneers are incredibly durable and stain-resistant. They also look and feel more like natural teeth compared to alternatives like Lumineers or tooth bonding.
Are porcelain veneers permanent?
Yes, your dentist will permanently attach them to your tooth, but he can remove them for emergencies in the future. Although once removed, you will have to begin the process over again. Porcelain veneers can not be reused.
Do porcelain veneers break easily?
Veneers are slightly weaker than your natural tooth enamel since they are porcelain. If you bite down on particularly hard things like your fingernails, plastic packaging, or beer caps, your veneers are more prone to chip or crack. However, this is unlikely to happen as veneers are still strong and durable.
Why do porcelain veneers fall off?
When your dentist applies veneers incorrectly, it may result in them falling off. Porcelain veneers may also fall off as teeth age, or due to excessive pressure. An unaddressed cavity can also cause a decline in quality.
How do porcelain veneers stay on?
Your dentist attaches veneers to your teeth using a special cement. A UV light beam activates the cement, so the veneer adheres to the surface of your teeth quickly, and usually by the end of your appointment.