Porcelain veneers in South Bend in South Bend

Why Are Porcelain Veneers Used?

Veneers porcelain are thin tooth coverings that are adhered to the front portion of teeth. They mimic the appearance of your real teeth for a natural-looking appearance. They can correct a variety of aesthetic issues, including stained and discolored teeth, chipped or misshapen teeth, and unevenly spaced teeth. The procedure for placing them is relatively easy. If you’re looking to correct minor imperfections in the appearance of your teeth, call our office today. We can help you determine if veneers are the right choice for you.

How Much Do Porcelain Veneers Cost?

The cost to receive veneers made from porcelain will vary for each patient and depends on how many teeth are receiving veneers and the overall complexity of the procedure. Most dental insurance providers won’t cover the porcelain veneers cost since treatment is considered medically unnecessary; however, we may have payment options or financing options available at our clinic. Please call our office for more information.

Should I Choose a Veneer or Crown?

Crowns and veneers are both good options for enhancing your smile, but there are some key similarities and differences between them. Both crowns and veneers are made of porcelain, can improve the color and shape of teeth, and they adhere to the underlying structure of teeth.

The primary differences between crowns and veneers are found in how much of the tooth is covered and how much of the original tooth structure needs to be removed. Porcelain crowns cover and protect teeth all the way to the gum line. They form a protective shell around the tooth in a process known as “capping a tooth.” Unlike crowns, veneers are thin shells that only cover the front of teeth. In addition, with veneers, only a small amount of tooth structure needs to be removed. Dental crowns may require removing up to two millimeters of natural tooth structure before they’re bonded to teeth as they are generally thicker.

Crowns are recommended for patients who have weakened or damaged teeth caused by decay, trauma, or tooth grinding because they’re very strong and durable and can help strengthen teeth. Veneers are recommended for patients who have healthy teeth and are only looking to enhance the beauty of their smile. Make your appointment today to learn more about crowns and porcelain veneers in South Bend.

Preparing Teeth for Veneers

Most patients require two or three visits to our office to complete the porcelain veneers procedure. Although veneers consist of a thin material, your dentist may need to remove a small portion of your tooth enamel. No more than one millimeter of enamel is removed, which helps create the natural look and feel of veneers. Your dentist will also decide on the exact shade of veneers, ensuring a perfect match to the color of your teeth.

Once your teeth have been prepared, a model of your teeth is created and sent to a dental laboratory. Then, lab technicians will create veneers that match the exact look of your natural teeth. After a one to two week period, you’ll come back to our office so the dentist can remove the temporary veneers. After they’ve been removed, your dentist will use a special cement to secure the permanent veneers to the surface of your teeth. Adjustments will be made if necessary, then an ultraviolet light is applied to the veneers to ensure a secure hold.

How Long Can I Expect My Veneers to Last?

Porcelain teeth are a strong and long-lasting solution for improving your smile. By caring for them just like your natural teeth, such as brushing and flossing every day and seeing your dentist regularly, it’s possible for veneers to last decades. Just like your real teeth, however, veneers can be damaged. You may need to wear a night guard if you frequently grind your teeth while sleeping, and it’s also important to wear a mouth guard while playing contact sports. You’ll also want to avoid using your teeth to open packages and avoid biting into hard foods or other objects.

Why Are Lumineers® Popular?

Lumineers® is the trade name for an innovative type of veneers that can last for more than 20 years. They’re much thinner in comparison to traditional veneers, which makes a big difference when Lumineers are applied since less of your natural tooth structure is removed. Be sure to contact our office for more information about Lumineers.