Imagine smiling in a mirror after your porcelain veneer treatment and seeing perfectly aligned, brilliantly white teeth that look entirely natural yet dramatically better than before. This transformation makes porcelain veneers one of today’s most sought-after cosmetic dental procedures. These remarkably thin shells can conceal stubborn stains, chips, gaps, and misalignments while preserving your natural tooth structure and creating results so lifelike that even you might forget they’re not your original teeth.
At North Creek Dental Care, we’ve helped countless patients obtain their dream smiles through porcelain veneers. Our experienced team of dentists provides complimentary consultations to learn about your smile goals and determine if veneers are the right solution for your unique needs. Our award-winning practice, which was voted Southland’s Best Dental Office of 2024, has established a reputation for excellence in cosmetic dentistry throughout Illinois.
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are thin shells custom-designed to cover your teeth’s front surface. Unlike crowns, which encase the entire tooth, veneers only cover the visible front area, requiring less tooth structure removal while providing dramatic aesthetic improvements.
Veneers can address numerous dental concerns, including:
- Teeth that are discolored and resistant to professional whitening
- Teeth that are worn down, chipped, or broken
- Teeth that are misaligned, uneven, or irregularly shaped
- Teeth with gaps between them
- Teeth that appear too small or short
In addition, the porcelain material used for veneers closely mirrors the light-reflecting properties of natural tooth enamel, creating a result that’s virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth.
The Porcelain Veneer Process
The porcelain veneer process often requires three appointments: consultation, preparation, and placement.
Consultation and Planning
Your veneer journey begins with a comprehensive consultation. During this appointment, we’ll discuss your smile goals, assess your oral health, and identify if veneers are right for you. We may also take X-rays and impressions of your mouth and teeth to help plan your treatment.
The planning phase of your treatment includes digital smile design technology, which shows you a preview of your potential results. This visualization helps you and your dentist align expectations before making permanent changes.
Preparation
During your preparation appointment, a small amount of enamel (typically about 0.5 mm) is removed from the front surface of each tooth. This creates space for the veneer so your teeth won’t appear bulky. Local anesthesia is often used to ensure your comfort.
After preparing your teeth, we take digital impressions to create a model of your mouth. These impressions are sent to a dental lab where your custom veneers are crafted. This process usually takes 1-2 weeks, during which you can wear temporary veneers to protect your prepared teeth.
Placement Appointment
Once your permanent veneers are ready, you’ll return for the final placement appointment. Each veneer is temporarily placed on its corresponding tooth to check for fit and color. The shade of cement used for bonding can be modified to adjust the veneer’s color.
Once you and your dentist are satisfied with the appearance, your teeth are cleaned, polished, and etched to create a firm bonding surface. Special cement is added to the veneer, which is then placed on your tooth. A curing light activates chemicals in the cement, hardening it quickly. Finally, extra cement is removed, and your bite is evaluated and adjusted if necessary.
Caring for Your Porcelain Veneers
Studies show porcelain veneers have a success rate greater than 95% after 10 years and 85% at 15 years. Here are some tips for ensuring long-lasting results and maintaining your investment:
Daily Maintenance
Maintain quality oral hygiene by brushing twice daily with a soft toothbrush and flossing once daily. While veneers can’t decay, the natural tooth structure beneath and around them remains susceptible to cavities.
Protective Measures
If you grind or clench your teeth, ask about a nightguard to protect your veneers from excessive force. Avoid using your teeth as utensils to open packages or bite nails, and be cautious with very hard foods like ice, nuts, or hard candy.
Regular Dental Visits
It is critical you continue seeing your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings. These visits allow us to follow the condition of your veneers and tackle any concerns before they become significant problems.
Schedule Your Porcelain Veneer Consultation at North Creek Dental Care
Porcelain veneers offer a notable opportunity to transform your smile with beautiful, natural-looking results. At North Creek Dental Care, our experienced team is devoted to providing exceptional cosmetic dentistry services backed by our membership program, which makes maintaining your new smile affordable and convenient.
Take the first step toward your smile transformation by scheduling a complimentary veneer consultation with our award-winning team. We’ll answer all your questions and help you determine if porcelain veneers are right for you. Contact us today at (708) 532-4131 or through our contact form to begin your journey to a more confident smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are porcelain dental veneers, and how do they improve your smile?
Porcelain dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of your teeth. They are often used to correct a variety of cosmetic dental issues, including misshapen teeth, discoloration, and chips. These veneers are made of dental porcelain, which closely mimics the light-reflecting properties of natural teeth, giving your smile a brilliant, natural look. A cosmetic dentist can help you achieve a confident, beautiful smile through this procedure.
How does the porcelain veneers procedure work?
The porcelain veneers procedure generally involves three appointments. During the first appointment, your cosmetic dentist will conduct an initial consultation and planning session. Next, the dentist will prepare your teeth by removing a small amount of enamel to ensure the veneers fit properly. Impressions are sent to a dental laboratory where your porcelain veneers are custom-crafted. Finally, the veneers are placed and bonded to your teeth, transforming your smile.
What is the difference between porcelain veneers and dental crowns?
Porcelain veneers and dental crowns both enhance the appearance of your teeth but differ in how much tooth structure they cover. Dental crowns encase the entire tooth, providing more coverage for damaged teeth. On the other hand, porcelain veneers only cover the front surface of your teeth, which means they preserve more of the natural tooth structure. Veneers are a better option for cosmetic issues, while crowns are typically used for more significant restorations.
How much do porcelain veneers cost, and are they worth it?
The porcelain veneers cost can vary depending on factors like the number of veneers needed and your geographic location. On average, porcelain veneers can range from $900 to $2,500 per tooth. While the initial cost may seem high, porcelain veneers offer a long-lasting, durable solution to cosmetic dental issues such as chipped teeth, gaps, or discoloration. With proper care, they can last 10-15 years, making them a worthwhile investment in your smile.
What are composite veneers, and how do they compare to porcelain veneers?
Composite veneers are an alternative to porcelain veneers and are made from a tooth-colored resin material. They are typically less expensive than porcelain veneers but may not be as durable or stain-resistant. Composite veneers can be applied directly to the teeth in one appointment, unlike porcelain veneers, which require custom fabrication in a dental laboratory. While composite veneers are a good option for those seeking a quicker solution, porcelain dental veneers generally offer more natural results and longevity.
Medically Reviewed By
The content on this site is medically reviewed by the experienced dental professionals at North Creek Dental Care in Tinley Park, IL. Led by Dr. Sharon L. Linder, DDS, and Dr. Bradley A. Engel, DDS, our team brings decades of combined clinical experience in general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry. Every article reflects our commitment to evidence-based care, patient education, and the highest standards in oral health.
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