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Dental Veneers


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Have you tried countless teeth whitening products, but your teeth are still heavily stained? Do you have a chipped or cracked tooth that you want fixed right away?

Porcelain veneers may be right for you. Please continue reading to learn more.


? What are dental veneers?

Dental veneers are made of thin plastic or porcelain shells that cover the front and chewing surface of the tooth for a flawless look. They can fix quite a few dental problems, and totally transform a smile in as little as two office appointments.

Veneers are typically used on the front teeth, and can be used to resurface just one or several teeth. They are firmly and permanently bonded to the natural tooth, while being custom designed to match the fit and color of your surrounding teeth.


? Are veneers right for you?

Veneers can make a smile appear more youthful and flawless. They can be used to change the shape and size of a tooth, as well as to:

  • whiten stained teeth that do not respond well to conventional whitening.
  • fix cracked, chipped, or worn teeth.
  • protect teeth from further damage.
  • close gaps or spaces between teeth.

? Are composite veneers right for you? What are composite veneers?

Composite veneers use the same material and process as dental bonding. The composite veneers procedure is typically completed in one office appointment. Cosmetic veneers are strong and durable, but not as much as porcelain veneers. Also, composite veneers can be fixed by patching it, but they may stain over time (porcelain veneers will not stain, though).


? What are porcelain veneers?

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Porcelain veneers are just that—veneers made of porcelain. The porcelain material has a translucent appearance that mimics natural teeth. Porcelain veneers are the most durable and natural-looking veneer. They are also stain resistant.

The porcelain material, however, may fracture or break due to extreme stress. If this happens, the porcelain veneer will need to be replaced. Our dentists will discuss proper care techniques so that your veneers will last a long time.


? What happens during the porcelain veneers procedure?

The service takes at least two office appointments. During the first appointment, we will shape and prepare the tooth, which includes removing some tooth structure and roughening the surface. We will also take a wax impression of your teeth, which will be sent to the laboratory as a model to create the permanent veneer. Before you leave this appointment, we will insert a temporary plastic veneer.

During the second appointment, we will remove the temporary veneer. A strong adhesive will be used to bond the new porcelain veneer to the tooth. A harmless, high intensity light will harden the adhesive material to create a tight bond.


? Which type of veneer is right for you?

Our cosmetic dentists will help you determine which type of veneer is the best for your smile. For extra strength, durability, and a natural-looking smile, porcelain veneers are a popular choice. For fewer appointments and lower costs, composite veneers would be a good choice.

Veneers will function just as your natural teeth. Our dentists will advise on proper care and habits to prolong the lifespan of veneers for ten years or more.


Veneers as part of a smile makeover at Washington Smiles

Veneers are typically chosen when a patient wants a smile makeover. If you would like to know if veneers are right for you, call us today to schedule a consultation appointment. In no time you’ll be enjoying a flawless, beautiful smile!