Veneers are very thin pieces of durable, tooth-shaped porcelain that are custom-made (for shape and color) by a professional dental laboratory. They are bonded onto the front of teeth to create a beautiful and attractive smile.
Veneers can completely reshape your teeth and smile. They can often be alternatives to crowns and the ideal solution in treating many dental conditions.
As with most dental restorations, veneers are not permanent and may someday need replacement. They are very durable and will last many years, giving you a beautiful, long-lasting smile.
Reasons For Porcelain Veneers
- Cosmetically, to create a uniform, white, beautiful smile
- Crooked teeth
- Misshapen teeth
- Severely discolored or stained teeth
- Teeth that are too small or too large
- Unwanted or uneven spaces
- Worn or chipped teeth
What Does Getting Porcelain Veneers Involve?
Getting veneers usually requires two visits to complete the process, with little or no anesthesia required during the procedure. The teeth are prepared by lightly buffing and shaping the surface to allow for the thickness of the veneer. A mold or impression of the teeth is taken, and a shade (color) will then be chosen by you and the dentist.
On the second visit, the teeth will be cleansed with special liquids to achieve a durable bond. Bonding cement is then placed between the tooth and veneer, and a special light beam is used to harden and set the bond.
You will receive care instructions for veneers. Proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new veneers.
Veneers At South Suburban Family Dental
At South Suburban Family Dental in Blue Island, IL, porcelain veneers are one of the most rewarding cosmetic services we offer and one that our doctor approaches with the same honest, patient-centered philosophy that defines every treatment recommendation at our practice. Veneers are recommended when they are genuinely the right solution for what a patient wants to achieve, and every cosmetic consultation begins with a clear conversation about goals, options, and realistic expectations before any treatment is planned.
Because veneers involve a permanent alteration of the natural tooth surface, our doctor takes the time to ensure every patient fully understands what the process involves, what the commitment means long-term, and whether veneers or an alternative cosmetic approach, such as whitening or bonding, would better serve their specific situation. Patients at South Suburban Family Dental are never steered toward the most expensive cosmetic option before less invasive alternatives have been honestly considered and discussed.
Caring For Your Veneers Long Term
With the right daily habits and consistent professional care, porcelain veneers can last many years and continue to look natural and beautiful throughout their lifespan. A few straightforward practices make a meaningful difference in how long your veneers perform:
- Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive toothpaste to protect the veneer surface finish and the surrounding gum tissue
- Floss carefully around each veneer margin daily to maintain the health of the gum tissue and prevent buildup at the edges of the restoration
- Avoid biting into very hard foods or using veneered teeth as tools that place unnecessary stress on the bonded porcelain
- Wear a custom nightguard if you grind or clench during sleep, as the forces generated by bruxism are one of the most significant contributors to premature veneer damage and failure
- Attend regular professional cleanings and check-ups at South Suburban Family Dental, so our team can monitor the condition of your veneers and address any early signs of wear or marginal changes before they become more significant concerns
If you are interested in learning whether porcelain veneers are the right cosmetic solution for your smile, the friendly and reliable team at South Suburban Family Dental in Blue Island, IL is here to walk you through your options honestly. Contact our office today to schedule a cosmetic consultation.