Porcelain Veneers – Oakton, VA
Correct Multiple Smile Flaws with Just One Treatment!
Everyone wants their teeth to look great, but when you have several imperfections in your smile, it’s hard to know where to start. Should you tackle those stubborn stains, close the uneven gaps, or fill the chips? With porcelain veneers, our team at Oakton Dentistry by Design can address all of these concerns in one fell swoop. Dr. Giordano and Dr. Khalil are more than happy to provide this amazing cosmetic treatment to completely revamp your smile. Just give us a call to learn more!
Why Should I Get Porcelain Veneers?
A veneer is a super-thin shell made of dental porcelain that covers the entire front surface of a tooth. This treatment can simultaneously correct a tooth’s size, shape, color, and proportion. Some of the many benefits of porcelain veneers include:
- Each veneer is custom-made to blend in with the adjacent teeth, so your results will look completely natural.
- Because porcelain is less porous than tooth enamel, veneers are significantly more resistant to staining than your natural teeth.
- With proper aftercare, veneers are durable enough to last 10-15 years.
- All you have to do to make your veneers last is brush and floss them like you would your natural teeth. Of course, don’t forget to see us twice a year for a checkup and cleaning, too!
- Less enamel must be removed to place a veneer than a dental crown, making veneers a more conservative and less invasive treatment.
Am I a Good Candidate for Porcelain Veneers?
Veneers are a great option if you have multiple cosmetic flaws that you’d like to correct at the same time. For example, while our professional teeth whitening treatment is great for removing stains, it sometimes can’t correct discoloration caused by age wearing down the enamel. Teeth that have become yellowed, gapped, cracked, or chipped over the years can look good as new after placing veneers.
Your oral health may also affect your eligibility for veneers. As long as you have generally healthy teeth and gums, brush and floss daily, and don’t clench or grind your teeth, veneers may be the right choice for you.
The Process of Getting Porcelain Veneers
The first step in the treatment process is a consultation with your Oakton dentist. After discussing your smile goals and determining that veneers are the best way for you to achieve them, we can move forward.
First, we prepare your affected teeth by shaving off a layer of enamel that’s about as thin as a contact lens. Then, we take impressions of your teeth to create molds, which are sent to our dental lab. While the lab is crafting your personalized veneers, we can place temporary veneers to not only protect your teeth in the meantime, but let you get an idea of how your smile will look. Two or three weeks later, you’ll return to our office to replace your temporaries with your permanent veneers, instantly transforming your smile for the better.
Veneers FAQs
You can have the stunning smile you have always wanted with veneers in Oakton. They are a big commitment, so it is normal to have some concerns, but your cosmetic dentist will explain everything during your veneer consultation. Here are the answers to a few frequently asked questions to determine if they are right for you.
Are veneers permanent?
Veneers are designed to provide a long-lasting solution, but they aren't permanent. Veneers need to be replaced about every 10 years because the procedure isn't reversible. The application process requires removing some enamel. Your teeth will always need to be covered by restorations, whether crowns or veneers. Thankfully, it's not unusual for veneers to last for decades with the correct care, like a solid oral hygiene routine and regular dental appointments.
How many veneers will I need?
It's possible to apply a veneer to a single tooth to fix a chip or cover a stain. However, the goal of the procedure is to enhance your entire smile. Often, they are applied to the teeth most visible when smiling. Since every situation is unique, there isn't any way to know how many you will need without first examining your mouth. Some patients need as few as 4 to 6, but others may require up to 10 to reach their goals. Your cosmetic dentist will explain how many you will need when creating your treatment plan.
Do veneers feel natural?
Veneers are thinner than ever. They are lightweight and won't feel bulky on your teeth. Shaving off enamel ensures the restorations sit flush to prevent any uncomfortable ridges. Your veneers will be smooth and sleek when running your tongue over your teeth. Your cosmetic dentist in Oakton will use advanced technology, so your veneers will fit your teeth like a glove. Although it may take a few days to adjust to your veneers, you may forget they aren't part of your natural smile.
What happens to the teeth underneath?
Etching your enamel doesn't harm the health or integrity of your teeth. Unfortunately, your enamel won't grow back if the veneers are removed, which is why they must always be covered by restorations. With the right care over the years, your underlying teeth can last for a lifetime.
Can I use my dental insurance to pay for veneers?
Veneers are considered elective, so it's rare for dental insurance to pay for them. However, if they are medically necessary, your coverage may pay a portion of the cost. This can be the case when needing replacements. Depending on your treatment plan, your policy may cover certain steps, like imaging or preparatory procedures. A member of our team will work with your insurance company to maximize any applicable benefits. They will explain how your coverage is being used and if there's any remaining balance. Our office accepts various payment options to keep a flawless smile within your budget, like third-party financing.