Minor imperfections in our smile can be unsightly and uncomfortable. Cosmetic dentistry offers a variety of solutions that can help adjust the look and feel of your smile. Porcelain veneers in Towson, MD, are some of the least invasive and quickest ways to help achieve the smile you want. After examining your mouth and discussing your cosmetic goals, your dentist can help determine if porcelain veneers are right for you.
What are Porcelain Veneers in Towson, MD?
Veneers are thin layers of porcelain that fit over the front of your teeth. They are typically placed on the anterior teeth, helping to adjust minor imperfections in your smile. Veneers can help fix a variety of issues, such as:
- Discoloration and Staining
- Minor Chips and Fractures
- Shortened or Misshapen Teeth
- Minor Gaps Between Teeth
When applied by a trained and experienced dentist, veneers could help you reach your cosmetic goals.
How Porcelain Veneers Work
For most patients, getting veneers is a two-appointment process. During the first appointment, your dentist will clean and prepare your teeth for the veneers. Veneers are thin, so your dentist will only need to remove a small layer of enamel from your teeth to make room for them. After preparations are complete, your dentist will then take impressions of your smile. Technicians use these impressions to fabricate your veneers. Leaving your teeth exposed with enamel loss can be dangerous. So, before you leave, your dentist will likely provide you with some temporary veneers to protect your teeth between appointments.
Most cases of porcelain veneers take about two or three weeks to complete. After your veneers are made, you’ll return to your dentist’s office for final placement. Your dentist will remove your temporaries, clean your teeth again, and then set your permanent veneers. After the veneers set, your dentist will perform any minor adjustments as needed to ensure your bite feels comfortable and your smile looks the way you want it to.
Veneers and Teeth Whitening
Your veneers are color-matched to your teeth to provide a seamless smile. Porcelain is not a porous material, which means that it can’t be whitened using teeth-whitening methods. If you are considering whitening your teeth to help improve the look of your smile, you will likely want to get professional whitening before veneers. Your veneers can be color-matched to your new, brighter teeth to help achieve the smile of your dreams.
Does Insurance Cover Veneers?
If used purely for cosmetic purposes, dental insurance will likely not cover veneers. However, if you are getting veneers for restoration needs, such as for fixing a chip or fracture, you may be able to get partial coverage. Before seeking treatment, your dentist can help you submit a pre-authorization to see if your insurance will cover any part of your veneers.
If you’re looking to improve your smile, Dental Excellence is here to help. Give us a call today at (410) 514-6553 to schedule a consultation and learn more about our cosmetic dentistry options.