At Kissing Camels Family Dentistry in Colorado Springs, CO, we get lots of patients who have questions about porcelain veneers. In this article, we’ve summarized the veneers FAQ’s so that you can get the answers you have been looking for. If you still have questions about veneers, feel free to contact Dr. Boals or drop by our office!
What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are thin sheets of material, usually porcelain, which are bonded to the front surface of a patient’s teeth in order to enhance the appearance of those teeth.
What Is Composite Bonding?
Composite bonding is a treatment that is offered at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry in lieu of dental veneers. With composite bonding, a plastic material is bonded onto the tooth so that the appearance of that tooth is enhanced.
Should I Choose Veneers or Composite Bonding?
Talk to Dr. Boals at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry in Colorado Springs and he will recommend the best option for your needs. For example, if your teeth are dark or broken, porcelain veneers may be a better option since they are stronger and more durable than composite bonding. Conversely, if the defect you have is minor, then composite bonding may be recommended by your cosmetic dentist in Colorado Springs, CO.
How Many Porcelain Veneers Do I Need?
Again, you need a consultation with Dr. Boals for advice on the number of veneers. Generally speaking, it is best to choose even numbers (2, 4, 6, 8, 10, or 12) so that there is balance between your upper and lower teeth. However, the experts at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry rarely recommend six veneers since the premolars will not form a good enough transition between the treated teeth and your molars. This can result in an unnatural look, but talk to Dr. Boals about what is applicable in your case.
How Long is the Veneers Procedure?
Once you and Dr. Boals have agreed that porcelain veneers be cemented on your teeth, you will need to come to Kissing Camels Family Dentistry a few more times so that we can properly prepare and place your veneers. These two appointments are normally 2-3 weeks apart and our team will let you know the applicable interval in your case.
How Durable Are Porcelain Veneers?
In our experience, porcelain veneers can last for 10 or more years, depending on how well you maintain them and your oral health. Dr. Boals, the best cosmetic dentist in Colorado Springs, recommends that you undergo professional teeth cleaning every six months. The cleaning and full-mouth exam will help prevent or address any emerging issues before they compromise the longevity of your veneers.
How Can I Care for My Dental Veneers?
Talk to any dentist in Colorado Springs CO and they will tell you how important good oral hygiene is. Dr. Green, a cosmetic dentist in Parker, CO, agrees that brushing your teeth for two minutes, twice each day, and flossing once a day will go a long way towards prolonging the life of your veneers. We also recommend that you wear a night guard every night, especially if you grind your teeth while you sleep. Our staff at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry will give you detailed instructions on how to maintain your veneers.
What Would Make Me Need to Replace My Veneers?
Most cases of patients who come to Kissing Camels Family Dentistry for replacement veneers have undergone gum recession and the roots of their teeth are now exposed. Dr. Boals cements new veneers on the teeth of such people so that the exposed roots can also be covered.
Will Insurance Cover the Cost of My Veneers?
Generally speaking, insurance companies don’t cover dental veneers because they regard them as an elective procedure. However, if your tooth has a large filling or crown, or you already had veneers, your dental insurance may cover the cost of new veneers.
Can I Get a Preview of My Veneers?
Yes, of course! At Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, we take a digital picture and use sophisticated software to adjust the photo to show what your smile will look like once the veneers are in. If you’re interested in seeing a digital mock up, let us know.
Does Veneering Hurt?
Dr. Boals usually administers a local numbing agent to make the veneering process painless. If you are getting just a few veneers (2-6), you may not feel any soreness once the local anesthetic wears off. However, patients who get 10 or more veneers will feel sore, but this can be addressed using over-the-counter medication.
We know you may have a lot more questions about dental veneers, and that is why we encourage you to contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry. Our experienced and courteous staff will address all your concerns and schedule a veneering procedure if you decide to move forward with this treatment. Let us help you to attain your best possible smile!