Porcelain Veneers
What happens when patients have healthy teeth and gums, but still feel self-conscious due to minor imperfections such as small chips and cracks? In many cases, porcelain veneers can be the answer. Porcelain veneers cover the front surfaces of the teeth to give them the right size, shape, color, and contours. Drs. Brett Helton and Tara Brown in Columbus, GA, can provide porcelain veneers to give your smile precisely the upgrade you desire. Our dentists are proudly affiliated with the Georgia Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, SPEAR Faculty Club, and American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.
Dental Concerns Addressed by Veneers
Because porcelain veneers cover the front of the teeth, they can conceal a number of cosmetic concerns. Often, patients consider porcelain veneers when they want to address teeth that are:
- Stained or discolored beyond what whitening can address
- Slightly cracked or chipped
- Slightly tilted or rotated
- Not touching adjacent teeth due to gaps
- Smaller than adult teeth normally are
- Misshapen
- Worn
Benefits of Porcelain Veneers
During your visit, the dentist will discuss your goals and answer your questions. This determines if porcelain veneers are the best choice as opposed to other treatment methods. For the right candidates, porcelain veneers can provide several unique benefits.
For instance, patients with a healthy tooth structure who want a strictly cosmetic enhancement should consider porcelain veneers instead of dental crowns. Dental crowns require the removal of a significant amount of dental tissue. Veneers require far less alteration of the tooth.
Porcelain veneers may also be more beneficial than dental bonding for some patients. Composite resin, the material used in dental bonding, can provide similar results, but does not look as natural. Additionally, composite resin does not last as long as dental porcelain.
Finally, porcelain veneers can enhance rotated or gapped teeth in far less time than orthodontic treatments. Individuals with mildly crooked smiles who want a faster solution can find satisfaction with porcelain veneers. In fact, veneers are often referred to as “instant orthodontics."
Love these people! They truly care about their patients. Cindy Battley Davenport
The Process for Receiving Porcelain Veneers
The process begins with Dr. Brown or Dr. Helton taking impressions of the teeth you wish to enhance. These impressions are created using advanced digital equipment to ensure accuracy. After the impressions are created, they are sent to a special laboratory where the porcelain veneers are custom-made to fit the patient. The laboratory also receives guidance on the correct shade of porcelain to use.
Because traditional porcelain veneers are bonded to the teeth, the front surfaces must be prepared prior to placement. Your dentist will remove a very small amount of enamel from the front surface of the teeth. This keeps the veneers from protruding or looking artificial.
After the porcelain veneers have been created, the dentist will make sure they fit properly. Once the appropriate size and shape has been achieved, the dentist will place the restorations using a special type of adhesive that holds the porcelain veneer against the surface of the tooth.
With proper care, porcelain veneers can last many years before they need to be replaced.
Book a Consultation
Like all cosmetic treatments, porcelain veneers are not covered by health and dental insurance. To help patients pay for this safe, effective smile enhancement, our office offers financing options including in-house payment plans and CareCredit®. Contact us online or call today at (706) 563-3225 to arrange a personalized consultation.
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