Modern dentistry offers solutions for both cosmetic and restorative needs that can improve oral health and transform the appearance of the smile. Dental veneers are an excellent option for various concerns that can be cosmetic or restorative in nature.
Often consisting of high-quality porcelain, dental veneers can change the appearance of your smile subtly or dramatically. The best way to determine if dental veneers solve your needs is to schedule a dental appointment with Dr. Gayed or Dr. Shaw. What could porcelain veneers do for your smile?
What Can Veneers Treat?
Veneers are a great option for improving the look of your smile. These thin, custom-made shells cover the front of your teeth to fix a variety of cosmetic concerns. Here are some common problems veneers can treat:
- Chipped or Cracked Teeth
- Stained or Discolored Teeth
- Gaps Between Teeth
- Uneven or Worn Teeth
We recommend veneers for patients who have enough tooth enamel for treatment. Our dentist will prepare the treated teeth and must remove a small portion of the enamel.
We will also only recommend veneers for adults. Kids’ and teens’ teeth and jaws are still growing and changing. If veneers are placed too early, they may not fit properly as the mouth continues to develop. This could lead to gaps or misalignment over time.
However, if you want to improve the look of your teeth without teeth whitening or orthodontic treatment, we will recommend veneers.
The Porcelain Veneers Process in Lincoln Park, Chicago
Placing porcelain veneers involves 2 to 3 visits to our dental office in Chicago. The first step is to evaluate the condition of your teeth and gums and discuss your cosmetic goals. We will create your personal treatment plan. Our office will decide which teeth need treatment. We will also shade-match your teeth to ensure the veneers look natural.
Tooth preparation involves strategically removing surface enamel so the veneers can be placed and remain stable. We will numb your mouth before we prepare your teeth for your comfort.
After we prepare your teeth, we take impressions for your custom veneers. Then, we will place temporary veneers. These veneers will cover and protect your teeth while a local lab creates your final veneers.
The ultra-thin porcelain ceramic used to create your new veneers will offer a natural-looking result that reflects light much like a natural tooth. Experienced in making over smiles with cosmetic dental treatments, Dr. Gayed and Dr. Shaw work closely with patients to achieve beautiful new smiles using porcelain veneers.
On the next visit, we will place the final veneers. Our dental team will remove your temporary veneers and use a special dental adhesive to secure the veneers to your teeth. After being adjusted for fit and polished, your new smile is ready to be shared.
How to Care for Veneers
Taking good care of your veneers helps them last longer and keeps your smile looking great. Here are some simple tips to protect your veneers:
- Brush and Floss Daily: Just like natural teeth, veneers need regular care. Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Floss once a day to remove plaque and food between your teeth.
- Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: Veneers are strong. However, you can chip them if you bite into hard foods like ice, hard candy, or nuts. Sticky foods, like caramel, can pull at your veneers and weaken them over time.
- Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools: Never use your teeth to open packages, bite your nails, or chew on pens. This can put too much pressure on your veneers. Just like natural teeth, bad habits can cause damage.
- Wear a Nightguard: If you grind or clench your teeth at night, contact us to get a custom nightguard. It can help protect your veneers from cracks or wear. Our dentist can make a custom nightguard that fits comfortably.
- Visit Our Dentist: Continue to see our dentist every six months for check-ups and cleanings. Routine care keeps your veneers in top shape. Our dentist can check for any issues and make sure your veneers stay strong and secure.
Porcelain Veneers: FAQs
Discover more about porcelain veneers in Lincoln Park, Chicago, with answers to these patient questions:
Am I a candidate for porcelain veneers?
You might be a good candidate for porcelain veneers if you have teeth that are chipped, stained, uneven, or have small gaps. Your teeth and gums should be healthy before getting veneers. If you grind your teeth or have very weak enamel, your dentist may suggest other options. The best way to know for sure is to visit our dentist for a check-up. He can tell you if veneers are right for you.
How does bonding compare to veneers?
Bonding uses a tooth-colored resin that we apply and shape directly onto the tooth. It blends in well but may not look as natural or shiny as veneers. Bonding may not require as much tooth preparation but does not last as long as veneers.
Veneers are thin, custom-made shells of porcelain that cover the front of the teeth. They look natural and resist stains better than bonding. Veneers also last longer. You must be committed to wearing veneers or covering your teeth with another treatment because it requires tooth preparation.
Does my dental insurance cover porcelain veneers?
Considered an elective dental procedure, porcelain veneers are not typically covered by dental insurance. Our front desk staff will work with you to determine if your dental benefits are applicable.
How long do porcelain veneers last?
Porcelain veneers can last 10 years or more depending on oral health habits. Routine dental care will support the longevity of your veneers. They also help our dental team monitor your restoration.
Treat Your Teeth
Get porcelain veneers in Lincoln Park, Chicago. Call White Glow Dental Studio today at (773) 549-2881. You can also request an appointment with Dr. Gayed online.
Please let us know if you have questions about veneers or other cosmetic treatment options. We will be happy to help.