Porcelain veneers in Commack and Dix Hills

Do you have front teeth that are discolored, irregularly shaped, or have chips in them? Normal wear and tear can erode the perfect smile you may have had when you were younger. As adults age, the teeth appear squarer compared to the rounded teeth of young people. Gaps can appear between teeth as you age, as well. Some unfortunate individuals are born with yellowish teeth as it can be something we inherit from our parents. And unfortunately, no amount of teeth bleaching will make them white.

What are Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain veneers are thin shells that fit over the front of teeth and slightly overlap on the sides. No one should be able to tell you're wearing veneers if you have a skilled, experienced dentist applying them. They are permanent restorations that hide one or more teeth that are healthy, but unsightly. You can cover one tooth which stands out or have a smile makeover that simply includes just your top front teeth that show when you smile. This is typically about six teeth.

What Can Veneers Change About My Smile?

Color: If teeth whitening treatments are not making your smile white enough, a smile makeover with veneers can offer a permanent solution. Porcelain dental veneers can transform the smile of people that were born with teeth that appear yellow. Yellow teeth can be hereditary, and there is nothing besides dental restorations that can change this. Also, veneers made from porcelain will not stain. In some cases, people may have one tooth with intrinsic staining from medication or trauma that stands out, and they would like it to match their other teeth utilizing a porcelain veneer.

Alignment: Veneers can cover a slightly misaligned tooth or minor gaps between teeth that make you feel self-conscious. Hiding the issue can be more convenient than getting braces. You could have a perfectly aligned smile in two weeks instead of two years. Dental porcelain cannot correct major misalignments, such as severe overcrowding or overbites.

Irregularly Shaped Teeth: Veneers can cover teeth with minor chips or teeth that appear too short, square, or have another irregularity that bothers you. You can smile with confidence once again, knowing you have uniform teeth. As we age, our teeth can lose their rounded appearance from normal wear and tear. Veneers really can make you appear younger.

What is the Procedure for Porcelain Veneers Procedure?

You'll begin with a consultation with one of our Helfner Dental Associate dentists to determine if your teeth and gums are healthy enough for veneers and to ensure you don't grind your teeth at night. If you do grind your teeth, you would need a night guard before getting veneers. Otherwise, you could crack them. Also, your dentist will have to determine if you need treatment, like gum disease treatment or cavities filled, before getting porcelain dental veneers. You'll also learn about your veneer options, as the brand you choose will affect your porcelain veneer cost.

The next step is having your tooth enamel reduced slightly, like one or two millimeters, so the veneer or veneers do not stand out. You and your dentist will choose the exact color for your veneers. If you plan on having your teeth whitened, you might want to do this first. Veneers do not respond to professional teeth whitening treatments, so their color will not change. Next, your dentist will take an impression of your teeth. This allows the dental lab to custom create veneers that look like your natural teeth. You'll most likely go home with temporary veneers. Once your veneers are finished, you'll have a teeth cleaning, and then your dentist will bond the veneer to your tooth and check your bite.

To get started, call our dental office in Commack today to schedule your consultation. You could be just a few weeks away from your dream smile.

What is the Difference Between Porcelain Crowns and Veneers?

Veneers mask unattractive, but healthy teeth. Crowns, because they cover the entire tooth, reinforce teeth that are not structurally sound anymore because of decay or injury. Crowns can cover healthy teeth that are unattractive, but veneers are a more conservative option. Talk to your dentist about which is the best option for you.

Do Veneers Last a Long Time?

Veneers made of porcelain can last a decade or two until they become loose. There are also veneers made of composite resin, but they do not last as long. To keep your veneers in place, don't use your teeth as a tool to open packages or bottles. Avoid chewing on ice or hard candies, too. This is good advice to protect your natural teeth as well.

Is Caring for Veneers Easy?

If you practice good dental hygiene, caring for your veneers is just like caring for your natural teeth. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss daily, and avoid hard-bristled toothbrushes and abrasive toothpastes because porcelain can get scratched. Then, when you consume food and beverages that stain teeth, they will also stain the scratches in your veneers. When you have veneers, you will still need regular dental exams and teeth cleanings. To protect your porcelain teeth, wear a mouthguard while playing contact sports or engaging in extreme sports.

Where Can I Find Porcelain Veneers in Commack?

At our dental office in Commack, our experienced and friendly staff know all about veneers. We can answer all of your questions. We can also address your concerns, such as the porcelain veneers cost you will incur. We know how happy people leave our office once their veneers are on, and we would like that for you, too. Please call at (631) 247-0977 to schedule your consultation.