FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT PORCELAIN VENEERS

Here are the answers to some common questions that you may have:

WHAT ARE PORCELAIN VENEERS?
Porcelain Veneers are thin shells of porcelain that are fabricated in a dental laboratory. They are placed over the front, or facial surface of teeth to create a gorgeous, natural looking smile. Porcelain veneers can be used to correct crowded teeth, discolored teeth, teeth that are too long or too short, gaps between teeth and virtually any other cosmetic problems associated with teeth. The original teeth are shaped by the dentist to accommodate the placement of the veneers. Temporary veneers, which look gorgeous, are worn by the patient for a few weeks while the real veneers are being made at the lab. Porcelain Veneers rarely stain, chip, break or come off. They are very strong and should last many, many years, and possibly forever. They feel natural in the mouth. Normally, only a few visits are needed to create a beautiful smile with porcelain veneers.

ARE PORCELAIN VENEERS AN ALTERNATIVE TO BRACES?
Depending on the age of the patient, Porcelain Veneers can be used to create a straight, white smile. Sometimes braces, or orthodontics, would be a preferable choice of treatment. A dentist can help you decide which option is better. Porcelain Veneers normally can be done in a much quicker time frame than orthodontics. Veneers usually take a few weeks, while braces are usually worn for several years. Orthodontics can only change the alignment of teeth. Porcelain veneers can change alignment, as well as the shape and color of the teeth, creating a dazzling smile.

ONCE PORCELAIN VENEERS ARE PLACED, ARE THERE ANY RESRICTIONS PLACED ON THE PATIENT?
Patients who receive Porcelain Veneers are told to live their lives normally. They are told to care for their new smile with good oral hygiene and regular recall visits at the dental office to keep the teeth and gums healthy. That is the best way to keep the veneers in great shape. Basically, there are no restrictions once the veneers are placed. Common sense will help veneers to stay on forever.

WHAT IS THE COST OF PORCELAIN VENEERS?
Porcelain veneers can be somewhat expensive, but patients who have had the procedure feel it was worth the cost. Having a gorgeous smile greatly improves one's confidence and self-esteem. Each case is different, and the cost will vary with the complexity of the case. Financing is available through a company called Care Credit (www.carecredit.com).

WILL DENTAL INSURANCE HELP PAY FOR PORCELAIN VENEERS?
Porcelain Veneers are normally considered a cosmetic procedure and therefore are not covered by dental insurance.

THE PRICE OF VENEERS VARIES GREATLY FROM ONE DENTAL OFFICE TO ANOTHER. HOW DOES ONE CHOOSE WHICH OFFICE TO GET THEM DONE AT?
It is the clinical skills and experience of the dentist, along with the quality of the laboratory used to fabricate the veneers, which determines how the case will turn out. The Porcelain Veneer procedure is very technique sensitive. Patients interested in having their smile enhanced with Porcelain Veneers should ask to see examples of the dentist's work. Most good cosmetic dentists will have before and after photos of their cases to show to new cosmetic patients. The confidence of the dentist and the staff is key. Some dentists will also have testimonials from some of their veneer patients. In summary, experience, skill level, confidence and choice of laboratory are the main factors that will help the cosmetic patient choose the correct dental office.