Permanent Veneers Procedure

Dental Veneers Procedure and What to Expect

At Chester County Family Dentistry, patients come from near and far to consult with our very own Dr. David Montgomery and Dr. Ryan Dunn for cosmetic dentistry solutions. One question we receive quite often is: Do you offer a permanent veneers procedure? The answer isn’t a straightforward one, but our patients are often pleased with our response.

Although there is no current method to provide veneers that last permanently, research proves that porcelain veneers are long-lasting with overall high patient satisfaction. As cosmetic dentistry options go for a complete “smile lift,” porcelain veneers are one of the most sought after procedures. If you’ve been considering porcelain veneers, you’ve come to the right article!

Learn everything you need to know about the veneers process and why Dr. Montgomery and Dr. Dunn are known for providing patients with the cosmetic dentistry smile makeover they’ve always dreamed of.

Looking at a sample veneer color palette, many people are reminded of the artificial acrylic-nail color options many manicurists offer to customers. In some ways, a veneer is similar to an artificial nail in that it covers your existing tooth and improves its appearance.

A porcelain veneer is essentially a thin shell customized to fit over your tooth. Those seeking veneers often seek to improve:

• Chipped tooth or teeth
• Discolored tooth or teeth
• Misshapen and crooked teeth
• Uneven spaces or gaps in between the teeth

For as many of our patients who ask whether we offer a permanent veneers procedure, we have just as many who ask: are veneers worth it? Especially porcelain veneers. Often, porcelain veneers are considered costly, and while they certainly can be, it’s important to compare and outweigh cost with quality.

In terms of durability, longevity, and beauty, porcelain veneers are considered the best available option.

Veneer placement as a procedure happens in several stages, which include:

• Tooth Preparation

  First, Dr. Dunn or Dr. Montgomery must remove a small portion of the tooth enamel to make room for the veneer to fit snugly and naturally.

• Impressions

  Next, an impression is made of your tooth or teeth for the best veneer fit. You’ll also have a chance to decide upon the best color shade to match your existing natural tooth or teeth.

• Lab Prep

  Once the mold of your tooth/teeth impression is made, it’s sent to the lab to prep your veneers. Since the lab may take awhile to finish constructing your veneers, Dr. Montgomery or Dr. Dunn may fit you with temporary veneers.

• Bonding

  Once your veneers are back from the lab and a preliminary fitting confirms a good match, your dentist bonds your veneers to your prepared teeth.

It’s important to remember that the veneers procedure may take two or more appointments. The product of your patience will be a smile you’ll be able to enjoy for years to come! Which brings us to our next talking point … how long do veneers last?

Show Off Your Smile For a Decade or More

Although porcelain veneers aren’t technically permanent, they have been shown to be one of the longest-lasting types of veneers. Take a look at two similar evidence-based studies regarding the longevity of porcelain veneers:

• 94.4% of clinical participants reported positive outcomes after five years
• 93.5% of clinical participants reported positive outcomes after 10 years
• 91% of clinical participants reported positive outcomes after 20 years

The more patients properly care for porcelain veneers after they’ve been bonded, the longer they will last!

When it comes to types of veneers, how do you know which option is best? Perhaps you’ve heard of composite veneers and that can be a more affordable veneer option. While this is often true, studies have shown that composite resin cosmetic veneers also suffer from limited longevity.

As of now, porcelain veneers remain the preferred choice of patients seeking durability, longevity, and esthetic appearance.

While we discuss the longevity of veneers and how your daily care can contribute to a longer-lasting smile makeover, let’s examine a few tips. Once your veneers have been properly bonded and you’re ready to show off your new smile, be sure to stay vigilant in your veneer care by:

• Avoiding chewing hard candy and ice, as these and other similar edible items can potentially crack, chip, or damage your veneers.
• Keeping up on thorough oral hygiene since veneers do not prevent cavities or gum disease.
• Asking our CCFD experts for recommendations for American Dental Association (ADA) approved products that are safe and/or specialized for veneers.
• Maintaining recommended dental visits and checkups to ensure that veneers are still functioning and fitting as they should.

The Importance of Consulting with a Cosmetic Dentist

Did you know that in the previously mentioned studies, a major contributing factor in the success or failure of porcelain veneers had to do with the dentist’s application and procedure performance? To ensure appropriate placement, fit, and overall outcome of your veneers, it’s vital to seek the expertise of a professional, board-certified dentist.

Both Dr. Montgomery and Dr. Dunn have extensive educational background and experience that makes CCFD the preferred general dentistry and cosmetic dental practice in Chester County. Dr. Mongomery has been repeatedly selected by his peers as one of Main Line Today Magazine’s “Top Dentists” for the past 10 years including the most recent 2019 issue!

Get on your way to a smile makeover now by requesting an appointment. Or, give us a call any time with questions.