Everything you need to know about your upcoming porcelain veneer smile makeover.

There are few dental-related choices quite as exciting as making the decision to get a porcelain veneer procedure done!Porcelain veneers are the ultimate smile makeover and an extremely rewarding form of cosmetic dentistry for both patients and dentists alike. Patients are able to attain the smile they always wished they had and their dentist is able to help them achieve it.As exciting as the prospect of a dental veneer procedure is, many patients are naturally a bit overwhelmed too. After all, the process of getting veneers is foreign to new patients and certainly seems more intense than a routine filling or crown.To help you feel as prepared as possible for your upcoming smile makeover, here's everything you need to know before, during, and after getting porcelain veneer procedure done.

Before the Procedure: Consultation and Getting Ready

Your Initial Veneers Consultation

Once you've decided that a porcelain veneer procedure is something you want, you can schedule a consultation. During your veneers consultation, your dentist will perform an in-depth examination, take X-rays and other digital images, and determine if you're a candidate for porcelain veneers.You'll have plenty of time during your consultation to talk about your smile goals, what you would like your new smile to look like, and ask any questions you have about veneers.

Preparing Your Smile for Veneers

Before moving forward with placing veneers, most patients will need some form of dental care first. If your oral health is great and your smile is free from decay, a simple deep cleaning prior to treatment may be all that's necessary. If you do have some underlying oral health issues, like decay, gum disease, or toothache, we'll treat these issues first before moving forward with veneers.The healthier your smile is before the veneers are placed, the longer they'll last!

Preparing Yourself for Veneers

Know that you'll need to eat a soft-food diet while wearing your temporary veneers. You may want to tailor your meal plan around this or reschedule any dinner dates you might have had planned during this time. Taking a day off work may also be something you'd like to do.

During the Procedure: What Happens at Your Two Visits

Teeth Prep and Placement of Temporary Veneers

During your first appointment, your teeth will be prepped and temporary veneers placed. The teeth prep process involves your dentist cleaning the surfaces of your teeth, removing a small amount of enamel from each tooth, and taking impressions of the prepped teeth.You'll be fitted with temporary veneers to wear while your permanent veneers are being created by a dental lab.

Placement of Permanent Veneers in Two Weeks

After about two weeks, your permanent porcelain veneers will be finished and shipped back to your dentist. During this second appointment, your temporary veneers will be removed, your prepped teeth etched for maximum adhesion, and the permanent veneers will be placed.Your dentist will ensure your veneers look right and fit well. A follow-up appointment will usually be scheduled at this time though you'll be encouraged to call earlier if your veneers don't feel right.

After the Procedure: Healing Process and Veneers Care

Healing After Veneers

It's normal to feel discomfort following your first appointment. Your teeth may feel sensitive and your mouth overall tender or sore. You can take over-the-counter pain relievers to keep any discomfort under control, as well as follow the aftercare instructions you'll receive at your appointment.Most patients will feel completely back to normal within a week or so. Once your permanent veneers are placed, you may again feel some sensitivity as you adjust to your new set. Keep in mind that you'll also physically adjust to the feeling of veneers in your mouth. This might take a few weeks.

Caring for Your Temporary Veneers

As mentioned earlier, temporary veneers often require a soft-food diet while being worn. Temporary veneers don't have the durability or staying power of permanent veneers, meaning very hard or sticky foods can cause them to break or pop loose. If this happens, it's crucial you contact your dentist right away.Even though wearing temporary veneers is a bit tedious, remember that you'll only be wearing them for a short time before getting your stunning new permanent set!

Long-term Care of Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers can be cared for just like your natural teeth. You'll want to brush twice a day, minimum, for two minutes. Floss at least once daily, ideally after your last meal of the day and before your nightly brushing.We also recommend keeping an eye on your intake of coffee, tea, wine, and other beverages or foods that can stain your veneers. Porcelain veneers are quite stain-resistant, but can still stain. Unlike stained natural teeth that can be whitened, porcelain veneers can't.

Ready to take the first step? Schedule your consultation now.

The team at Tomasik Family Dental is eagerly waiting to guide you through the process of attaining your dream smile with porcelain veneers.When you're ready to schedule your consultation, you can do so by calling our office or filling out this online form. If you're a new patient looking for porcelain veneers in Bee Cave, this initial consultation will also include a New Patient examination so our doctors can learn more about you and your smile. We look forward to helping you get the smile you've always wanted.