Additional FAQs About Porcelain Veneers
Will porcelain veneers look natural?
A porcelain veneer is specially fabricated to blend in seamlessly and harmoniously with the rest of your surrounding teeth. Not only is porcelain very aesthetically similar to the translucency of natural tooth enamel, but the veneer is also shaded to the exact tint of the rest of your smile. It’s important to remember that the quality of your final results relies on the skill and expertise of your dentist. If your veneer is placed by a knowledgeable and experienced cosmetic dentist, it should look and feel like a natural part of your smile. We invite you to explore the results achieved by patients who previously received porcelain veneers in our smile gallery.
Do porcelain veneers stain?
Porcelain veneers are stain-proof, but they’re still affected by bacteria buildup, decay, and cavities. To ensure your veneers remain in good condition for many years to come, it’s necessary to maintain excellent dental hygiene. We recommend brushing, flossing, and rinsing your mouth twice-daily to maximize the strength and longevity of your veneers. Keeping up with your regular dental appointments is also key to identifying potential issues before they worsen.
Can porcelain veneers be whitened?
No, whitening is not possible with porcelain veneers because the restorations are normally resistant to the bleaching agents found in both professional teeth whitening treatments and over-the-counter products. However, if your veneers do not blend in with the rest of your teeth anymore, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with our cosmetic dentists. It may be possible to recolor your veneer(s) so they appear more inconspicuously within your smile.
Are porcelain veneers covered by dental insurance?
No, porcelain veneers are considered elective treatments pursued solely for aesthetic reasons. Since veneers don’t present any medical necessity, they’re not usually covered by dental insurance policies. That said, many patients find the cost of veneers very affordable with dental financing options like CareCredit® and United Medical Credit®. These healthcare lending companies split the total cost of treatment into smaller, more manageable installments for qualified patients.
How strong are porcelain veneers?
Dental porcelain is among the strongest and most enduring materials used to fabricate veneers. While they should not become damaged by chewing hard or tough foods, bruxism (teeth grinding) and clenching your teeth can cause premature wear and tear. If you’re prone to teeth grinding or clenching while asleep, you may consider investing in a night guard to protect your restorations.
Will I have tooth sensitivity after getting porcelain veneers?
Men and women usually do not struggle with tooth sensitivity after getting veneers, but there are ways to mitigate sensitivity if you’re feeling discomfort. Toothpastes and dental products formulated to treat sensitivity, such as Sensodyne®, can provide relief. In addition, we recommend refraining from consuming food and drinks at extreme temperatures.
To find out what porcelain veneers can do for your smile, please feel free to contact our office online or by phone to schedule an appointment.