Are you unhappy with the appearance of your smile? Often find yourself feeling self-conscious when it’s time to say “cheese”? Porcelain veneers are a popular cosmetic treatment for helping people like you love their smiles again. If you are considering this method for your own teeth, you may have questions. And guess what? We’ve got answers. Keep reading to find out the answers to some of the most common questions about veneers.

What Are Veneers Made of?

Most dental veneers are made out of porcelain, a biocompatible material that looks just like your natural tooth enamel (except, of course, better). Porcelain is non-porous and reflects like in the same way as the teeth you were born with. It is also highly customizable to ensure that the results match the precise look that will suit you best.  

How Do Veneers Stay on?

Veneers are permanently bonded onto the front surface of your teeth and cannot be removed except with special tools by your dentist. To achieve the secure bond, the enamel is first roughened up, a bonding agent is applied, and a special cement is then placed on top. Finally, the veneer is placed and set under a special curing light. The bond that forms is very strong and can stay secure for years and years to come.

How Do I Take Care of Veneers?

Cavities cannot form on dental porcelain, but you should still take special care to brush and floss your teeth regularly to keep your smile in tip-top shape. When you clean the veneers, brush gently with a soft-bristled brush and be careful not to yank on the veneers with the dental floss. Wear a special mouthguard if you play contact sports or grind your teeth at night.

Do Veneers Stain?

No! Because porcelain is non-porous, it will not absorb the shades of what you eat and drink. You can think of veneers as something like a permanent whitening treatment — a wonderful benefit of this cosmetic treatment!

What Happens If a Veneer Breaks or Chips?

If a veneer is damaged, it usually cannot be repaired because it is made from a single piece of porcelain. Therefore, a new veneer will need to be created to keep your smile looking its best. You can prevent damage to the veneers by avoiding biting directly into hard or sticky items and protecting them with a mouthguard if you play sports or grind/clench your jaw.

How Long Do Veneers Last?

With proper care and maintenance, your dental veneers can last for up to 20 years. They will eventually need to be replaced due to natural changes in your oral anatomy. Fortunately, this replacement process is as simple as the first time around.

Meet the Practice

Fort Dental offers comprehensive dental services for patients of all ages. To learn more about their general, restorative, or cosmetic dentistry treatments, including porcelain veneers, do not hesitate to get in touch with the office by calling 817-292-5957 today.