Making steps towards achieving a brighter, healthier smile can be transformative, not just for your oral health, but for your overall confidence and quality of life. Dental implants are one way you can and restore not only the appearance of your smile but its functionality as well. Patients interested in this option can speak one-on-one with our Jacksonville and Live Oak, FL, dental implant dentist.
Deciding to enhance your smile with porcelain veneers can be exciting! These thin “shells” not only give each treated tooth a whole new look but they also protect the surface of teeth that have been visually damaged. However, before moving forward, there are a few crucial things our Jacksonville and Live Oak, FL, cosmetic dentist wants you to know.
Here are 5 essential insights you need to grasp before committing to the .
1. How Porcelain Veneers Work
First and foremost, let’s define what porcelain veneers are. As mentioned above, they are thin, custom-made shells designed to cover only the front surface of teeth. Crafted from high-quality porcelain, veneers offer a solution to various dental concerns, including discolored, worn down, chipped, or misaligned teeth. They are celebrated for their strength, durability, and the seamless way they mimic the natural translucency of tooth enamel.
2. It’s a Minimally Invasive, But Precise Procedure
The process of getting porcelain veneers typically involves multiple visits to our dentist: consultation, preparation, and application. Before the final result can be made possible, keep in mind that our dentist will need to remove a small amount of tooth enamel to accommodate each veneer, which is crucial for a natural fit and appearance.
Despite being considered minimally invasive, precision is key. Our dentist will take digital impressions of your teeth, use a shade guide, and work closely with an outside dental lab to ensure your veneers perfectly match your teeth in color and shape.
3. Veneers Have Longevity, But Still Require Care
Porcelain veneers are known for their durability, often lasting between 10 to 15 years, or even longer with proper care. Unlike natural teeth, veneers are resistant to staining from coffee, tea, or red wine, making them a long-term solution for a bright smile.
However, they do require the same level of oral hygiene as your natural teeth. Regular brushing, flossing, and teeth cleanings every 6 months are essential to maintain both your veneers and the overall health of your mouth. It’s also wise to avoid using your teeth as tools or biting into very hard foods to prevent chipping.
4. Not Everyone is a Suitable Candidate for Veneers
While porcelain veneers offer a versatile solution to many cosmetic dental issues, they’re not suitable for everyone. For one, need to have healthy teeth and gums before our team can get started. Conditions like gum disease, tooth decay, or the need for large fillings may disqualify or delay you from getting veneers though most issues can be dealt with first prior to the application of veneers.
Additionally, if you have habits such as teeth grinding or clenching, our dentist may recommend addressing these issues before considering veneers, as these habits can damage the porcelain.
5. Getting Veneers Is a Financial Investment
Porcelain veneers are an elective procedure and therefore, are a financial commitment. Since it’s considered cosmetic, many insurance plans may not cover the cost. The price can also vary widely depending on the number of veneers you need. However, considering the transformative impact and durability of veneers, many do find them to be a valuable investment in their confidence and quality of life.
Ask About Veneers Today
Porcelain veneers from our cosmetic dentist in Jacksonville and Live Oak, FL, offer a fantastic way to enhance your smile and boost your self-esteem. By understanding what the procedure entails, its benefits and limitations, and how to care for your veneers post-procedure, you’re well on your way to making an informed decision. If you’re considering porcelain veneers, call one of our Higgins & White Dentistry locations today to request an appointment.