What to Expect When Getting Veneers
Getting porcelain veneers is a multi-step process that typically takes two to three visits and involves minimal discomfort. We start by assessing your smile goals, checking your oral health, and confirming that veneers are a suitable option. If you're a good candidate, we prepare the teeth by removing a small amount of enamel and take precise impressions. After the custom veneers are crafted in a lab, we bond them securely to your teeth, make fine-tuned adjustments for comfort and appearance, and ensure they blend naturally with your surrounding smile.
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
Veneers are ultra-thin shells of ceramic material that are bonded to the front surface of your teeth. They can change the color, shape, size, and alignment of teeth, making them ideal for correcting a wide range of cosmetic dental issues such as:
Discoloration or staining that doesn't respond to whitening
Chipped or worn teeth
Gaps between teeth
Mild crowding or uneven spacing
Misshapen or short teeth
Porcelain is favored because it closely mimics the translucency and shine of natural enamel, making veneers virtually indistinguishable from real teeth when done properly.
What Is the Process for Getting Veneers?
At North State Dental, our process for placing veneers has three steps.
1. Consultation and Planning
We begin with a comprehensive evaluation to determine if veneers are right for your goals and oral health. We'll discuss your smile preferences, take photos, and sometimes create a digital mock-up so you can preview your future smile.
2. Tooth Preparation
A thin layer of enamel is gently removed from each tooth to make space for the veneers. This step ensures a natural fit and avoids a bulky appearance. We then take impressions of your teeth and send them to a dental lab to custom-craft your veneers.
3. Final Placement
Once your veneers are ready, we check their fit, color, and shape before bonding them to your teeth using a strong dental adhesive. Small adjustments are made for comfort and aesthetics. The result is a durable, natural-looking smile designed to last for years.
What Are the Benefits of Veneers?
Instant cosmetic improvement across multiple teeth
Stain resistance, especially compared to natural enamel
Minimal tooth structure removal
Custom shading and shaping for a natural appearance
Long-lasting results with proper care
Are There Any Limitations?
Veneers are durable but not indestructible. If you clench or grind your teeth, you may need to wear a nightguard to protect them. They are not recommended for patients with untreated gum disease or severely misaligned bites. While veneers can last 10 to 15 years or more, they may eventually need replacement.
Veneers are a cosmetic procedure, so they are not typically covered by insurance. However, many patients feel the boost in confidence and function is well worth the investment.
FAQ
Do veneers hurt?
Most patients experience little to no discomfort. We use local anesthesia during the enamel preparation stage to ensure a comfortable process.
How long do veneers last?
With good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, porcelain veneers can last 10 to 15 years or longer.
Can veneers stain like natural teeth?
Porcelain is highly stain-resistant, but it’s still a good idea to avoid excessive coffee, tea, or tobacco use to keep them looking their best.
Will veneers damage my natural teeth?
The process requires removing a small amount of enamel, but this does not harm the tooth when done correctly. Veneers actually help protect the remaining tooth structure.
Am I a candidate for veneers?
If you have healthy teeth and gums and want to improve the look of your smile, veneers may be a great option. We'll assess your bite, enamel, and goals to determine the best treatment.
