Flower Mound Dental offers several cosmetic dental options to improve the look of your teeth. Dr. Jennings is an expert cosmetic dentist who can change the color, shape, and overall look of your smile. They provide porcelain veneers in Flower Mound, TX, to help patients achieve the beautiful smile they’ve always wanted.
What are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are a popular cosmetic treatment that can fix many problems with teeth. They are thin shells made from ceramic that fit over each tooth. We use porcelain because it reflects light like natural tooth enamel, making the veneers look very real. Your dentist will bond each veneer to the front of your teeth to create your perfect smile.
Getting Porcelain Veneers in Flower Mound, TX
Getting porcelain veneers involves a few visits to the dentist. First, you will have a consultation where Dr. Jennings will check your medical history, examine your teeth, and talk about your goals. They will then create a treatment plan that fits your needs, budget, and long-term oral health.
In the first step, your dentist will prepare your teeth by removing a small amount of tooth enamel. This helps the veneers fit well and look natural. We will take several impressions of your teeth. One will be used to make temporary veneers to protect your teeth until your permanent ones are ready. The mold will be sent to a dental lab where a skilled technician will make your custom porcelain veneers.
In about 2-3 weeks, your dentist will bond the veneers to the front of your teeth. They will adjust the fit and polish them to make sure they look natural.
The whole process for getting porcelain veneers is minimally invasive. Most patients do not feel pain, but some may have slight discomfort or soreness afterward. If needed, we can numb the area around the tooth to keep you comfortable.
Porcelain Veneers Benefits
One of the biggest benefits of porcelain veneers is that they can fix almost any cosmetic dental issue. For tooth discoloration, we often recommend professional teeth whitening. However, traditional methods may not work for deep stains from trauma. We can create a veneer in any shade of white you want to fully cover the discolored tooth.
Veneers can also fix cosmetic chips or breaks. Our teeth wear down as we age, leading to uneven teeth or other imperfections. Veneers can refresh your smile and align your teeth properly. You can achieve a complete smile makeover using just veneers.
If you have small gaps between your teeth, veneers can help close them without needing braces. Each veneer is made just for you, ensuring a natural look.
Veneers are strong and made to last. With proper care, they can last 10-15 years or more. The porcelain we use is stain-resistant, so it stays whiter longer than other treatments. Getting veneers is painless and relatively quick. Since they cover your natural teeth, they can also provide extra protection against enamel erosion.
Caring for Porcelain Veneers
Taking care of your veneers helps them last longer. Keeping them clean is easy—just follow your normal oral health routine. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss at least once a day, and visit the dentist twice a year for a cleaning and checkup. Use gentle toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid scratching your veneers.
If you grind your teeth, we do not recommend getting veneers. Grinding puts a lot of pressure on them, which can cause them to pop off or break. While veneers are strong, they can still be damaged. If you decide to get veneers, wear a nightguard while you sleep to protect them. You should also use a mouthguard if you play contact sports.
Certain habits can damage your veneers. Biting your nails or chewing on pens increases the risk of chips or cracks. Chewing ice and using your teeth to open packages can also lead to damage. Try to avoid these habits as much as possible.
You know how your veneers should fit and look. If you notice any changes, call our office. Regular dental checkups are also important, as we can catch issues you may not notice.
Porcelain Veneers FAQs
Porcelain veneers can be a quick way to improve your smile. Here are answers to some common questions.
Does getting porcelain veneers hurt?
No, we use local anesthetics to numb the area where we work, so you stay comfortable. Most patients feel pressure when we prepare the teeth for veneers. You might experience some sensitivity to hot and cold foods for a few days after. If you feel severe pain, call our office right away.
Are porcelain veneers permanent?
No cosmetic dental treatment lasts forever. Once you get veneers, you will need some type of restoration on those teeth for life, since the preparation is permanent. On average, porcelain veneers last about 10-15 years, but this can change based on your habits.
Can I get cavities with porcelain veneers?
The porcelain itself cannot decay, but you still have natural teeth underneath the veneers that can get cavities. If those teeth decay too much, it can cause the veneers to loosen or fall off. It’s important to maintain a good oral health routine.
Can the veneer pop off my tooth?
While it is rare, it can happen. To reduce this risk, avoid biting hard foods or putting too much pressure on them. Neglecting the tooth structure beneath the veneer can also lead to problems.
I grind my teeth at night. Will this impact porcelain veneers?
Yes, grinding puts a lot of pressure on veneers, making them more likely to chip or come off. If you grind your teeth, we may need to make you a bite guard to protect your veneers.
Am I a good candidate for porcelain veneers?
To get porcelain veneers, you should be an adult with a fully developed mouth and understand that this is a permanent procedure. If you have any doubts, we can suggest other treatment options. You also need to be in good overall oral health, as healthy teeth are needed to support the veneers.
If you want to change your smile, schedule a consultation with Dr. Jennings today. Call our office at 972-640-7891 or request an appointment online. We offer high-quality, custom porcelain veneers in Flower Mound, TX.