Porcelain veneers have become an increasingly popular cosmetic dentistry option for those seeking to improve the appearance of their teeth — without the hassle of orthodontic treatment. These thin, custom-made shells are designed to cover the front surface of a person’s teeth, offering a natural-looking and durable solution for various dental imperfections. Smile Center in Buffalo, NY transforms smiles with the highest-quality porcelain veneers available in Western New York. 

Why get porcelain veneers?

Porcelain veneers are designed to improve the appearance of teeth that may be discolored, chipped, uneven, or misaligned. The procedure for porcelain veneers is relatively non-invasive compared to other dental restorative methods.

They are durable and long-lasting

When deciding on dental veneers, there are generally two options: porcelain and resin/composite veneers. If you’re wondering which dental veneers are the best, there are a couple key points to consider: longevity and appearance. Porcelain veneers are considered the best choice for many patients due to their durability, stain resistance, and natural appearance. They can last for 10 to 15 years with proper care, whereas resin veneers typically last between 4 to 8 years.

Porcelain veneers look natural 

One of the main reasons people choose porcelain veneers is their natural appearance. Unlike other dental restorations, such as composite resin or dental bonding, porcelain veneers closely mimic the translucency and gloss of real teeth. This ensures a natural and realistic appearance, blending seamlessly with the rest of your smile.

Veneers can address many cosmetic dental concerns

Before the age of dental veneers, the options for fixing cosmetic imperfections in your teeth were time-consuming (i.e. braces) and often unnatural looking. Now, dentists can use porcelain veneers to fill gaps, straighten teeth, and restore a natural, white brilliance to your smile.

The ability to fill gaps between teeth not only enhances the appearance of your smile, but it can also improve chewing functionality and overall oral hygiene.

Another advantage of porcelain veneers is their capacity to straighten teeth. This is particularly beneficial for those with crooked front teeth or other misalignment issues that would be more challenging, time-consuming, or costly to correct with braces.

Porcelain veneers are also an excellent choice for front teeth restoration. Due to their natural appearance and durability, they can effectively restore chipped, cracked, or discolored front teeth. Moreover, the veneers are custom-made to match the size, shape, and color of your existing teeth, so the results look natural.

Can anyone get porcelain veneers?

Porcelain veneers can address a wide range of concerns, but they aren’t suitable for everyone. As for the question of whether anyone can get porcelain veneers, the answer is not as straightforward. Age and oral health are two crucial factors to consider. Generally, adults with a stable oral health condition are suitable candidates, while younger individuals with developing teeth or people with deteriorating oral health may not be ideal. However, as a comprehensive dental care provider, Smile Center is equipped to address a wide range of dental concerns that may be standing in the way of achieving a beautiful new smile with dental veneers.

Who’s a good candidate for porcelain veneers?

Typically, a candidate for porcelain veneers is someone who has healthy teeth and gums. They should not have any gum disease, severe tooth decay, or extensive tooth loss, as these conditions can negatively impact the long-term success of veneers. However, minor dental issues, such as chipped or stained teeth, can often be addressed with veneers.

Regarding porcelain veneers with missing teeth, the situation also depends on the extent of the tooth loss and the patient’s overall oral health. In some cases, dental professionals may recommend dental implants or bridges to replace missing teeth before veneer placement. This approach ensures stability and proper bite function while maintaining an aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Lastly, it is crucial to address any existing gum disease before proceeding with porcelain veneers. An unhealthy periodontal environment may lead to the failure of the veneer or worsening of the gum condition. A dental professional needs to fully assess and treat any gum issues before veneer placement is considered.

How does the porcelain veneer treatment process work?

The procedure begins with a consultation where the dentist and patient discuss the desired outcome and select the appropriate shade for the veneers. The dentist then prepares the teeth by removing a small amount of enamel from their front surface. This step is crucial for ensuring a proper fit and creating a strong bond between the veneer and the tooth. An impression of the prepared teeth is made and sent to a dental laboratory, where the veneers are custom-created.

Once the veneers are ready, the dentist cleans and etches the tooth surface to enhance the bonding process. A strong dental cement is applied to the veneer before it is positioned onto the tooth. A curing light is used to harden the cement and secure the veneer. Finally, the dentist polishes the veneers and checks for proper fit and bite alignment.

Smile Center’s in-house dental lab custom-fabricates your veneers

Patients can find a variety of dentists offering porcelain veneer treatments. But very few have the advantage of an in-house dental laboratory. That’s one thing that sets Smile Center apart from the others (along with our glowing reputation)! Because all our veneers are custom-made in our own laboratory, we can offer a faster, more seamless treatment process. On top of that, you can trust that the end result will be held to the highest standard. As a result, our patients at Smile Center can confidently invest in a solution that will enhance their smile and improve their overall dental health.

Are dental veneer procedures painful?

In most cases, patients experience minimal to no discomfort during the treatment. Local anesthesia may be used to numb the area and ensure that the patient is comfortable during the tooth preparation process. Some patients may experience slight tooth sensitivity following the procedure, but this usually subsides within a few days.

Do porcelain veneers ever need repair?

A common concern for patients seeking porcelain veneers is that they’ll chip, stain, or need to be reshaped or replaced. The good news is that they are durable and highly resistant to staining. Good oral hygiene should be enough to keep your veneers looking beautiful for years. But in the case of heavy staining, your veneers may need to be professionally polished or replaced. 

On the flip side, it’s important to remember that veneers are custom-made to match the shade of your own teeth for the most natural-looking results. Porcelain does not respond to bleaching agents, so if you’re unhappy with the shade of your natural teeth, talk to your dentist about whitening to your desired shade before veneer placement.

Another thing to consider when your veneers are placed is the shape. While it’s possible to have porcelain veneers reshaped or adjusted, it’s best done during the initial placement and bonding. Making adjustments afterwards can be more complicated.

Are porcelain veneers permanent?

Porcelain veneers are the longest-lasting type of dental veneer, but they aren’t permanent. WIth good care, you can expect your porcelain veneers to last 10-15 years. If your veneers are at the end of their lifespan, they can easily be replaced by a skilled dentist. 

As for removall, porcelain veneers can be challenging to remove due to the strong bonding agent used. Removing them may also damage the underlying tooth enamel. However, with advances in dental technology, some veneers can be removed and replaced with minimal tooth damage. 

Porcelain veneer cost and insurance coverage

The cost of porcelain veneers varies depending on several factors such as the expertise of the dentist, the type of veneers, and the number of teeth being treated. 

It’s important to note that dental insurance providers typically don’t cover the cost of porcelain veneers, as they are considered a cosmetic procedure rather than a medically necessary treatment.

However, Smile Center is proud to offer multiple financing options to help make the procedure more accessible for a wide range of patients. Don’t let cost deter you from getting the smile of your dreams — ask about financing options at your consultation! On top of that, we offer a free consultation and second opinion for all new patients, so you can feel confident in your decision to pursue porcelain veneer treatment with Smile Center. 

Porcelain veneers in Buffalo, NY

Without a doubt, porcelain veneers are a popular cosmetic dentistry option, but it’s crucial to seek out a highly skilled dentist for the best aesthetic and functional results. At Smile Center in Buffalo, NY, we specialize in smile transformations that restore your confidence and help you love your smile again! Request a consultation for porcelain veneers today!