Is the veneers procedure painful?

Dr. Grubb will administer a local anesthetic to numb your teeth and gums before the Lumineers procedure, so you won’t feel any pain. You may experience some mild discomfort immediately after treatment, but this will fade within a few hours. If you suffer from dental anxiety or a low pain tolerance, we also offer dental sedation options to ensure you’re comfortable throughout the procedure. If you’re interested in learning more about dental sedation, contact our office by calling (410) 939-5800 and a knowledgeable team member will be happy to assist you.

How long do veneers last?

With excellent oral hygiene and regular checkups, they’ve been known to last up to 20 years. On average, Lumineers need to be replaced roughly every 10 years. To improve the longevity of your Lumineers, you’ll want to avoid biting into hard foods, refrain from eating foods known to stain, and schedule biannual appointments at our Havre de Grace office with Dr. Grubb. During these visits, he can examine the integrity of your Lumineers and may suggest new ones if it’s time.

Does dental insurance cover veneers?

Veneers are a cosmetic treatment, so most insurance companies won’t cover the procedure. We recommend checking with your provider prior to your appointment for specific information on your coverage. For your convenience, we also offer flexible financing options so you can have the smile you deserve without having to wait. If there are any questions we can answer, don’t hesitate to contact our office by calling (410) 939-5800 and a helpful team member will be happy to assist you.

What if my veneer falls off or is damaged?

While it’s a rare occurrence for a veneer to fall off, it can happen. If your veneer falls off, do your best to keep it clean and call us right away, and we’ll schedule you an appointment at your earliest convenience. Don’t attempt to fix or reattach the veneer yourself, as this can result in further damage. Dr. Grubb may be able to reattach the veneer or recommend a new one.

(410) 939-5800

Candidates for Porcelain Veneers: Understanding Candidacy in Havre De Grace, MD

Name: Porcelain Veneers
Brand: Veneers
SKU: 001

Are Porcelain Veneers the Best Cosmetic Dentistry Option for You?

Porcelain veneers are a popular cosmetic dental procedure that can dramatically improve the appearance of your teeth. They’re custom-made, thin shells bonded to the front surface of your teeth to create a natural-looking, beautiful smile.

If you’re considering porcelain veneers, it’s important to understand the process and whether or not you qualify for this treatment. Candidates for porcelain veneers should have healthy teeth and gums, ensuring they are free from cavities, active gum disease, or significant dental problems, and should be committed to maintaining good oral hygiene to qualify for this cosmetic dental procedure.

Our Havre De Grace, MD, dentist breaks down the ideal candidates for porcelain veneers below. To schedule a consultation, call Family Implant and Reconstructive Dentistry at (410) 939-5800.

Do You Qualify for Porcelain Veneers?

Most patients qualify for this stunning cosmetic dental treatment. Dental veneers may be an option for you if you’re looking to conceal any of the following cosmetic imperfections:

Stained teeth
Chipped or cracked teeth
Misshapen or crooked teeth
Gaps between your teeth
Teeth that are too small or too large
Worn-down teeth

Porcelain veneers are thin porcelain shells designed to cover these imperfections, offering a solution that involves minimal removal of tooth structure while effectively covering up worn enamel, discolored, or uneven teeth.

Factors that Affect Dental Veneer Candidacy

Oral Health

Before getting porcelain veneers, you need to be in good oral health. Unhealthy teeth, such as those with untreated cavities or gum disease, need to be addressed before considering porcelain veneers. If you have gum disease or other oral health problems, you may not be a good candidate for this treatment. We recommend addressing any oral health concerns with our Havre De Grace dentist before undergoing a dental veneer treatment.

Tooth Structure

Your teeth must have enough natural tooth structure to support the dental veneers. If your teeth are severely damaged or decayed, you may need to consider other treatments, such as dental crowns or dental implants. You also need to have an adequate amount of tooth enamel to support the veneers.

Teeth Grinding

If you grind your teeth, you may not be a good candidate for porcelain veneers. Grinding can damage the veneers and cause them to break or become dislodged.

Bite alignment

If you have a misaligned bite, you may not be a good candidate for dental veneers. Veneers can change the shape and size of your teeth, but they cannot correct issues with your bite.

How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?

Dental veneers can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years depending on the individual case. With proper care and maintenance, some dental veneers can even last up to 25 years. However, it’s important to note that the lifespan of porcelain veneers can vary from person to person and from case to case. Some people may need to replace their porcelain veneers sooner than others.

Factors That Affect Longevity

Various factors affect how long porcelain veneers last, including:

Oral Hygiene Habits: Good oral hygiene is essential for the longevity of porcelain veneers. Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease, which can cause the veneers to fail. Make sure you’re brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing regularly, and visiting your dentist biannually.
Bite Forces: Teeth grinding and clenching can put excessive pressure on porcelain veneers, causing them to crack or chip. Wearing a nightguard can help protect the veneers from these forces.
Diet: A diet high in sugar and acidic foods can cause the veneers to deteriorate over time. Limiting the consumption of these foods can help prolong the lifespan of porcelain veneers.
Smoking: Smoking can stain and discolor porcelain veneers, reducing their lifespan.
Accidents or Trauma: Accidents or trauma to the face can cause the porcelain veneers to crack or chip, requiring replacement.
Quality of Materials: High-quality materials and proper placement techniques can significantly improve the longevity of porcelain veneers.

Porcelain Veneer Alternatives at Family Implant and Reconstructive Dentistry

If porcelain veneers aren’t quite right for you, there are a few other alternative cosmetic dentistry treatments at Family Implant and Reconstructive Dentistry to consider:

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening can improve the brightness of your smile in just a few short visits to the dentist. Some dentists even offer in-office treatments as well as take-home whitening kits. However, teeth whitening may not be suitable for those with dental restorations, such as dental crowns.

Lumineers

Lumineers can be a great alternative for those looking for a less invasive option. Since they’re thinner than porcelain veneers, they don’t typically require any tooth enamel shaving or grinding. They’re placed directly on your teeth, giving you a renewed appearance.

Orthodontic Treatment

Some dental issues can’t be fixed with porcelain veneers. For those with severe misalignment or bite problems, you may need orthodontic treatment. Your dentist may recommend traditional braces or Invisalign to help you correct your smile alignment.

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are placed over damaged or decayed teeth to restore function and appearance. They’re designed to match the appearance of a natural tooth and can be made from various materials.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to replace or repair porcelain veneers if they become damaged?

Yes, in most cases, damaged porcelain veneers can be replaced or repaired. However, the extent of the damage will determine the appropriate course of action. Minor chips or cracks can often be repaired, while extensive damage may require replacing the veneer altogether.

Do veneers make your breath stink?

No, veneers shouldn’t cause your breath to stink. However, if your veneers aren’t cleaned and maintained properly, oral bacteria can build up on and around them, causing bad breath.

Determine Your Candidacy for Porcelain Veneers at Family Implant and Reconstructive Dentistry

Porcelain veneers can be a great option for improving the appearance of your teeth. However, it’s important to consider whether or not you’re a good candidate for this treatment. The health and condition of your natural teeth play a crucial role in determining if you’re suitable for porcelain veneers, emphasizing the need for a strong oral hygiene routine and regular dental check-ups.

To determine if porcelain veneers are the best treatment for you, contact Dr. Grubb in Havre De Grace, MD, today at (410) 939-5800 to schedule your appointment.