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Porcelain Veneers New Bern, NC

Porcelain Veneers An Overview

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 be used to:

  • 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

Porcelain 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?

  • A natural looking solution for a wide range of dental concerns
  • Porcelain veneers are stain resistant
  • Porcelain can be color matched to match your natural teeth.
  • Porcelain veneers are decay resistant
  • Don’t require an extensive amount of preparation

"Not only do my teeth look great, they feel fantastic. I would not trade my experience with Dr. Hoard and his staff for anything in the world."

Smoke

"When you see old friends and they say: ‘you haven’t changed a bit’…that’s when you know Dr. Hoard and girls did a wonderful job. Thanks for giving me my smile back."

Marlene

Porcelain Veneers What to Expect

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, 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

How long do porcelain veneers last?

On average, porcelain veneers can last upwards of about 10 years. It is important for patients 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. Porcelain veneers can not be whitened. There is no need to worry about your veneers becoming yellow or discolored since they are extremely stain-resistant. If you have old veneers that are discolored, consider getting them replaced.

Do porcelain veneers protect your tooth from cavities?

There is certainly a great deal of protection that a veneer can offer, but this restoration is not meant to completely protect the tooth it’s placed on 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 instance, biting into hard foods like ice or hard candy could cause chips in the porcelain. Good oral hygiene and avoiding excess pressure against them will help your veneers last many years.

Do porcelain veneers stain over time?

Yes. Porcelain veneers are usually resistant to staining. 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. There is no need to take them off at night.