If you have concerns about the appearance of your teeth, porcelain veneers could be right for you. New Bern dentist, Dr. Stephen Hoard, is one of the most experienced cosmetic dentists in North Carolina. He offers several options for dental veneers including porcelain veneers as well as alternatives like cosmetic tooth bonding.
What are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are thin ceramic shells that are permanently bonded to the front and side of the teeth. Porcelain veneers are designed to match the appearance of natural teeth. They can hide imperfections and improve the shape, color, size, and position of teeth.
Using state-of-the-art technology, Dr. Hoard can create porcelain veneers that blend seamlessly with your natural smile.
Porcelain Veneers in New Bern, NC
Porcelain veneers can:
- Correct small spaces or gaps between teeth
- Improve the color or appearance of stained and discolored teeth
- Repair small chips or cracks
- Repair chipped, fractured, or broken teeth
- Improve the appearance of crooked or misaligned teeth
- Change the shape or length of teeth
- Repair worn teeth
Veneers are extremely durable and tooth-like. The porcelain material has a translucence and texture similar to natural tooth enamel. Unlike tooth enamel, however, porcelain veneers are resistant to stain and decay. Not to mention that porcelain veneers can brighten your smile and improve self-esteem.
What are the benefits of porcelain veneers?
Veneers are:
- A natural-looking solution for a wide range of dental concerns
- Stain resistant
- Color matched to match your natural teeth.
- Decay resistant
- Minimally invasive (they don’t require an extensive amount of preparation)
The Porcelain Veneer Process
The process for porcelain veneers usually takes place over multiple visits. Before deciding to use porcelain veneers, Dr. Hoard will perform a comprehensive evaluation to examine your teeth, mouth, joints and muscles. Taking into consideration your cosmetic goals, Dr. Hoard will prepare a personalized treatment plan.
Once treatment begins, Dr. Hoard will gently shape the teeth, removing part of the natural tooth structure. This provides a better surface for bonding and allows room for the placement of the thin porcelain shell. An impression of the prepared teeth will be made as well as adjacent teeth.
Temporary veneers made of plastic will be placed over the teeth to protect them while the final porcelain veneers are being made at a dental laboratory.
At your next appointment, Dr. Hoard will test your veneers to make sure that they fit properly and that they are the correct size and color. Together, you will make sure that you are satisfied with the final result.
Any adjustments will be made before the final fitting. The porcelain veneers will be permanently bonded to the teeth using a composite resin cement and cured with a UV light or laser.
Porcelain veneers are an excellent way to improve the appearance of your teeth and protect them from future wear. Contact us to find out if porcelain veneers are right for you.
Porcelain Veneers FAQs
Read answers to common questions about porcelain veneers in New Bern, NC:
How long do porcelain veneers last?
On average, porcelain veneers can last upwards of about 10 years. Patients need to practice a healthy oral hygiene routine and schedule regular visits to the dentist. Veneers are considered a permanent restoration.
Can dentists whiten porcelain veneers?
No. We cannot whiten veneers. However, you do not need to worry about your veneers becoming yellow or discolored since they are extremely stain-resistant. If you have old veneers that are discolored, you should get them replaced.
How do veneers compare to teeth bonding?
Veneers are shells that cover the front of your teeth. They are made from strong materials like porcelain and are designed to last 10 to 15 years or more. Veneers are a good choice if you want to fix stains, chips, small gaps, or uneven teeth. However, it requires tooth preparation, which makes it a permanent treatment.
Teeth bonding is a simpler option. During treatment, our dentist applies a tooth-colored resin directly to your tooth and shapes it to fix chips, cracks, or small gaps. Bonding doesn’t require enamel removal, so it’s reversible. However, it doesn’t last as long as veneers—it may need to be replaced every 5 to 10 years and can stain over time.
Are veneers only for adults?
Veneers are best for adults. We must remove a small amount of enamel for veneers, so your teeth must be fully developed before you get them. Most kids and younger teens still have growing teeth, so veneers aren’t a good option for them.
Do porcelain veneers protect your teeth from cavities?
Veneers can protect your teeth but can not completely protect the tooth from cavities. Veneers can offer some protection from tooth decay, but you should still take steps to protect yourself by brushing your teeth diligently and practicing great oral hygiene.
Do porcelain veneers break easily?
Porcelain veneers are made of a strong and durable material that is resistant to breakage. They do not break easily. However, they are not indestructible. While they provide a durable solution, they can break or chip if exposed to high levels of pressure
For example, if you bite into hard foods like ice or hard candy, it can create chips in the porcelain. Practice good oral hygiene and avoid excess pressure against them to help your veneers last many years.
Do porcelain veneers stain over time?
Yes. Porcelain veneers are usually resistant to stains. However, composite veneers can stain over time because they contain resin. Resin is more porous than porcelain.
Do you take veneers off at night?
No! Porcelain veneers are permanent and stay in your mouth at all times. They should be in your mouth 24/7. You do not need to take them off at night because they should feel comfortable.
Get Bright and Straight Teeth
Do you want to get whiter and more even teeth without braces or teeth whitening? Get custom porcelain veneers in New Bern, NC. Call (252) 507-0373 or schedule an appointment with us online.
If you have questions about treatment, please let us know. We’re here to help.