In This Article
If you have ever wished you could just wake up with a brand new smile, traditional porcelain veneers may be the answer for you. Veneers are a popular cosmetic dentistry option because they can dramatically transform your smile with just a few simple steps. Cosmetic dentists carefully evaluate your smile, curate personalized treatment plan to fix uneven tooth alignment and tooth structure, and transform your smile completely.
At URBN Dental, we specialize in creating beautiful smiles with custom dental veneers. We work with each patient individually to ensure that their veneers are the perfect shape, size, and color to complement their natural beauty. If you are interested in learning more about dental veneers and how they can help you achieve the smile of your dreams, contact URBN Dental today. We would be more than happy to answer any questions you may have and help you get started on the path to a brand new smile.
You can find URBN Dental in Uptown Houston, Midtown Houston, and Montrose. Our Uptown Houston cosmetic dentistry is ideal for patients in or around River Oaks, Galleria, and Highland Park. Please schedule an appointment at your nearest dental offices in Houston to learn more about composite veneer and porcelain veneer procedures.
What are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers (sometimes called porcelain veneers or dental laminates) are wafer-thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored materials designed to cover the front surface of teeth to improve your appearance. These shells are bonded to the front of the teeth, changing their color, shape, size, or length. Veneers can be made from porcelain or from composite resin materials. Porcelain veneers resist stains better than composite veneers and better mimic the light reflecting properties of natural teeth.
Types of Dental Veneers
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are made of a thin piece of porcelain that is custom-crafted to fit over your existing tooth. Porcelain is a strong and durable material that can resist staining and discoloration. Porcelain veneers can give your smile a natural-looking appearance.
Composite Resin Veneers
Composite veneers are made of a composite resin material that is applied directly to your tooth. Composite veneers are less expensive than porcelain veneers. However, they are not as durable and may not last as long. Composite veneers can also be stained and discolored over time.
Benefits of Porcelain Veneers:
If you are considering dental veneers, you may be wondering what the best option is for you. Porcelain veneers and composite dental veneers are both popular choices, but there are some key differences between the two. Here are some of the benefits of porcelain veneers over composite dental veneers:
- Porcelain veneers are more durable. They are less likely to chip or stain than composite veneers.
- Porcelain veneers provide better value in the long run. Although they may be more expensive initially, they will last longer and require less maintenance than composite veneers.
- Porcelain veneers give you a more natural look. Composite veneers can sometimes look “fake” or “plastic-y,” especially when done by inexperienced cosmetic dentists.
- Porcelain veneers are less likely to cause gum problems. Because they are made of porcelain, they are smooth and do not attract bacteria the way that composite veneers can.
If you are considering the dental veneer procedure, porcelain veneers are a great option. They are more durable, provide better value, and give you a more natural look. Our cosmetic dentistry will curate a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve optimal cosmetic improvements to your smile.
Uses of Porcelain Veneers:
Porcelain veneers are one of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures. They are thin shells of porcelain that are bonded to the front of your teeth to change their shape, size, color, or length. The dental veneer procedure is an excellent choice for people who want to make minor changes to their smile. Dental veneers can be used to:
- Change the shape of your teeth
- Make your teeth look longer
- Change the color of your teeth
- Close gaps between your teeth
- Improve the symmetry of your uneven teeth
If you are considering porcelain veneers, it is important to find a qualified cosmetic dentist who has experience in placing them. During your consultation, your cosmetic dentist will examine your teeth and talk to you about your goals for your smile. They will also let you know if veneers are the best option for you.
The Dental Veneer Procedure
The procedure usually takes two to four weeks. It often requires two visits to your dentist – the first visit is to prepare the tooth and take a mold or impression of your tooth (examination and tooth preparation). The second visit is to place the veneer on your tooth, i.e., the cosmetic procedure.
First, your dentist will examine your mouth and teeth to make sure dental veneers are appropriate for you. Then, your dentist will select the proper shade of veneer to match the color of your natural teeth. Next, your tooth will be prepared for the veneer. To perform tooth preparation, a very thin layer of your tooth enamel will be removed, about equal to the thickness of the veneer. This process is irreversible.
After your tooth is prepared, your dentist will make an impression, or mold, of your tooth. This mold is sent to a dental laboratory, where your veneers will be made. Meanwhile, you will wear temporary veneers that last a few weeks. When the dental veneers are ready, usually within two to four weeks, you will return to your dentist’s office to have the veneers placed on your teeth.
Before placement, your dentist will again examine the fit and color of the veneers. The dental veneers will then be bonded to your teeth with a special dental cement. A special light beam may be used to harden, or cure, the cement. After the cement is set, your cosmetic dentist will check your bite and make any necessary adjustments to the porcelain dental veneers.
You will be given care instructions at the completion of the procedure. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure the longevity of your porcelain dental veneers.