What are Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are thin, durable shells made of porcelain or composite resin that are custom-made to fit your natural teeth. They’re bonded to the front of your teeth, and crafted to blend in with your smile so well you can’t tell them apart.
Veneers are stain-resistant, extremely durable, and can transform your smile by making them look several shades whiter. This restoration solution can enhance your confidence and allow you to smile without feeling self-conscious.
Are You a Candidate for Veneers?
Beyond giving you the freedom to smile again, veneers offer a range of benefits that improve your appearance and oral health. They’re commonly used to fix:
- Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth
- Gaps and spaces between teeth
- Misaligned, crooked, or irregularly shaped teeth
- Discoloration or stains
If you’re looking to fix any of these minor imperfections, then you’re a candidate for porcelain veneers. Schedule a free consultation with Dr. López to discuss your options and how our exceptional team can help restore your smile.
Get a New Smile in Two Visits
Before your procedure, Dr. López will discuss your treatment options and go through each step of the process to make sure you’re prepared to receive your new veneers.
The first step involves taking an impression of your teeth to determine which shape and color veneer will blend in with your natural teeth. Dr. López will send these images to our laboratory to create your custom-made veneers. In about two to four weeks, we’ll be ready to complete the next step in restoring your beautiful smile.
To ensure your veneers fit perfectly, Dr. López will remove a thin layer of enamel from the surface of your tooth. Once your teeth are polished and cleaned, we’ll place your veneer over the prepared tooth and secure it using a special dental adhesive. In just two visits, veneers can help you get the ideal look you want.
Frequently Asked Questions
Veneers are a minimally-invasive, non-surgical procedure that should cause little to no pain. Dr. Lopez will numb your teeth before placing your veneers to make sure you don’t feel anything during the procedure.
You may experience some mild discomfort after your treatment is finished, but this typically fades within a few hours. You can also take over-the-counter pain medications for relief, if necessary.
With proper care, veneers typically last for seven to fifteen years. If you practice excellent oral hygiene, they may last even longer. To get the most out of your veneers, avoid habits that can damage your teeth such as biting your fingernails or chewing ice cubes.
Unfortunately, most insurance providers won’t cover veneers since they’re an elective cosmetic procedure. However, some providers may cover a portion of the cost depending on the terms of your plan. The amount of payment you’ll receive can vary — if you have any questions about your insurance benefits, don’t hesitate to ask our team.
If your veneer falls out or gets damaged, it’s crucial not to panic. Don’t attempt to fix or reattach the veneer yourself, as this can lead to further damage. Instead, do your best to keep the veneer clean and call our practice right away. Dr. Lopez will see you as soon as he’s able to and provide a solution that fits your needs.
You can take care of your veneers just like natural teeth, with daily brushing and flossing. No special cleaning products are necessary to keep your veneers sparkling. As long as you keep up with your oral care routine and visit Dr. Lopez for regular checkups, your veneers will enhance your smile for several years.
Yes! In many cases, Dr. Lopez can use porcelain veneers to help crooked teeth appear straighter. As a result, you can achieve a perfect smile without going through the hassles of orthodontic treatment. If you have crooked teeth that you’d like to correct, schedule a consultation at our Spokane practice today.
