Porcelain Veneers

Why Choose Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain veneers offer a minimally invasive way to dramatically enhance your smile. They can:

• • Create a bright, uniform smile by covering discoloration and stains.

• • Reshape crooked, misaligned, or uneven teeth without orthodontic treatment.

• • Close gaps and correct spacing issues between teeth.

• • Enhance small or worn-down teeth, restoring symmetry.

• • Repair chipped, cracked, or fractured teeth for a smoother, healthier look.

Veneers provide an instant cosmetic transformation while preserving most of the natural tooth structure, making them an excellent alternative to crowns for many patients.

The Porcelain Veneer Process

Getting porcelain veneers typically requires two visits and involves minimal discomfort.

First Appointment: Tooth Preparation & Impressions

• • Consultation & Smile Design: You and the dentist discuss your goals and desired results.

• • Tooth Preparation: A small amount of tooth enamel is gently removed (about 0.5mm) to ensure a natural fit.

• • Impressions & Shade Selection: Molds are taken to create custom veneers, and you select the ideal tooth color with your dentist.

• • Temporary Veneers (If Needed): In some cases, temporary veneers are placed until the permanent ones are ready.

Second Appointment: Veneer Placement & Bonding

• • Cleaning & Preparation: The teeth are cleansed with a special liquid to enhance bonding.

• • Precise Fitting: The veneers are checked for fit, shape, and color before bonding.

• • Cementing & Curing: A strong dental adhesive is applied, and a special curing light hardens the bond.

• • Final Adjustments: The veneers are polished and refined for a comfortable, natural feel.

How Long Do Veneers Last?

With proper care, porcelain veneers can last 10-15 years or longer. Their stain-resistant properties keep them looking bright, but maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding excessive force on the teeth can extend their lifespan.

Caring for Your Porcelain Veneers

• • Brush and floss daily to maintain healthy teeth and gums.

• • Use a non-abrasive toothpaste to prevent surface wear.

• • Avoid biting into hard foods (such as ice, nuts, and hard candy) to prevent damage.

• • Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth at night.

• • Schedule regular dental checkups to ensure your veneers remain in top condition.

Are Porcelain Veneers Right for You?

If you’re looking for a long-lasting, natural-looking solution to improve your smile, porcelain veneers may be the perfect choice. They provide a dramatic aesthetic enhancement with minimal alteration to your natural teeth.

At Lisa J. McDonald, DMD & Associates, we create customized, high-quality veneers to give you the smile you’ve always wanted. Schedule a consultation today to take the first step toward a confident, radiant smile.