People often ask about the differences between general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry, and we think the best way to explain it is as follows: general dentistry focuses on the health and function of your mouth, teeth, and gums, and cosmetic dentistry focuses on the aesthetics of your smile.
However, one of the many wonderful aspects of cosmetic dentistry in Burkburnett, TX, is that while improving the aesthetics of your smile with cosmetic dentistry procedures, Dr. Kyle Clark and his dental team also improve the health and function of your mouth, teeth, and gums. Porcelain veneers are an excellent example of a cosmetic dentistry procedure that improves the health and function of the tooth while delivering a stunning new smile.
What Do Porcelain Veneers Correct?
Porcelain veneers may be the best option to correct these flaws:
- Discolored teeth (from medications, smoking, or teeth-staining foods and drinks)
- Worn teeth
- Teeth damaged from fluoride
- Chipped teeth
- Broken teeth
- Teeth with large gaps between them
- Crowded teeth
- Uneven teeth
- Irregularly shaped teeth
- Teeth damaged from old fillings
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are thin shells of ceramic material that strengthen and perfect your teeth. Hand-crafted by skilled artisans, porcelain veneers allow light to pass through them, mimicking the light-handling properties of natural tooth enamel.
These wafer-thin shells are bonded to the front of your teeth to cover and correct just about any dental flaw. Porcelain veneers are the most common cosmetic dentistry procedure because they fix many dental problems.
Dr. Kyle Clark and his team use only the best labs and the highest quality materials, so our porcelain veneers are beautiful and natural-looking every time. Your family, friends, and colleagues may wonder what’s different about you, but they won’t know you have porcelain veneers unless you tell them
Getting Porcelain Veneers in Burkburnett, TX
After Burkburnett cosmetic dentist Dr. Kyle Clark decides you’re a great candidate for porcelain veneers, a small amount of enamel will be removed from the surface of your tooth. This is done to prepare the tooth to receive the veneer. During your first appointment for veneers, temporary veneers will be put in place while your permanent ones are made in a laboratory.
During your second visit, the permanent porcelain veneers will be bonded to the teeth receiving them. Our Burkburnett dental team will work masterfully to make amazing final touches to the porcelain veneers, providing the stunning smile you expect.
Some patients require what is referred to as “gum recontouring” during the porcelain veneers process; gum recontouring enhances your smile even further. Not all people require gum recontouring, but if necessary, we will explain it to you so you know exactly what it entails.
Benefits of Porcelain Veneers
There are many benefits of porcelain veneers, including:
- A simple procedure that takes only two visits
- Offer a natural appearance
- Permanent and durable
- Easy to maintain
- Permanent tooth whitening option
- Look and feel just like natural teeth
- Increase your confidence
- Provide a dazzling smile
Frequently Asked Questions
How painful is a porcelain veneer procedure?
Getting porcelain veneers isn’t usually painful. We’ll numb your mouth, so you shouldn’t feel any pain during the procedure. You might feel some pressure or odd sensations, but it’s generally easy to handle. Afterward, you may experience minor sensitivity or soreness, but it typically fades quickly.
Do porcelain veneers stain?
No, porcelain veneers are highly resistant to staining. The porcelain material is non-porous, so it doesn’t absorb stains from food and drinks like natural teeth can. However, the bonding material that attaches the veneers to your teeth might discolor over time. While veneers themselves don’t stain easily, it’s still a good idea to limit foods and drinks that can stain, like coffee, tea, and red wine.
Can I get porcelain veneers with missing teeth?
Unfortunately, you can’t get veneers to replace missing teeth. They need existing teeth to attach to because they’re thin shells that cover the front surface. If you’re missing teeth, options like dental implants, bridges, or partial dentures are better solutions. We can help you to find the right treatment for your situation.
How much tooth has to be removed for veneers?
We usually remove a thin layer of enamel from the front surface to prepare your tooth for a veneer. This is usually about 0.5 to 1 millimeter—about the thickness of the veneer itself. Removing this small amount allows the veneer to fit properly and look natural without making your tooth appear bulky. In some cases, minimal-prep or no-prep veneers are an option. This requires little to no enamel removal.
Will my porcelain veneers look completely natural?
Yes, your porcelain veneers can look completely natural. They’re custom-made to match your surrounding teeth’ color, shape, and size. A good dentist will ensure the veneers mimic the clearness and texture of natural enamel. With proper design and placement, most people won’t even notice you have them.
Can you get veneers if I have rotten teeth?
If your teeth are rotten or severely decayed, veneers might not be an option. Veneers need healthy tooth structure to attach properly. You probably need treatments like fillings, root canals, or crowns before considering veneers. It’s best to talk with our dental staff to determine the right solution for you.
Learn More About Porcelain Veneers in Burkburnett, TX
Please call Burkburnett Family Dental at 940-340-4588 to schedule a new patient appointment or to ask any questions you still have. You may also fill out our online contact form; one of our dental team members will reply soon.