Porcelain Veneers In Clearwater, FL
Porcelain Veneers
When you meet someone for the first time, they will likely judge you for your smile. Ideally, your teeth should match the whites of your eyes. If your teeth are discolored or have visible damage, you may not want to smile. Millions of people feel this way about the appearance of their teeth.
Cosmetic dentistry can resolve these issues. One of the most popular and least invasive treatments at Baker Cosmetic & Family Dentistry in Clearwater is porcelain dental veneers. Here’s what you need to know about this treatment:
Why Choose Baker Cosmetic & Family Dentistry In Clearwater For Porcelain Veneers
Dr. Craig Baker and the team at Baker Cosmetic & Family Dentistry understand the importance of your smile. We will work with you to create the perfect smile of your dreams with our variety of cosmetic dental procedures including porcelain dental veneers.
We treat our patients like family and strive to create a comfortable environment that mitigates any anxiety you may have about dental work.
What are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are thin, tooth-colored shells designed to improve the shape, color, and appearance of teeth. This is a cosmetic procedure primarily used on the upper 6 to 8 teeth that are visible when smiling. Since it is a cosmetic procedure, it is considered elective instead of medically necessary, which means insurance typically will not cover any portion of the treatment.
Patients choose porcelain veneers to:
- Disguise discoloration, cracks/chips, and minor crookedness
- Fill small gaps between teeth
- Lengthen worn-down teeth
Who is the Right Candidate for Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are most common among female patients between the ages of 30 to 45. However, this cosmetic procedure is ideal for patients who have minor aesthetic concerns. Candidates for porcelain veneers have:
- Severe staining that is non-responsive to whitening treatments
- Minor chips/cracks in teeth
- Minor misalignment or spacing issues
- Overall healthy teeth and gums
- Adequate enamel
- Proper oral hygiene habits
Porcelain veneers are a viable option for patients with multiple cosmetic concerns that cannot be resolved with other options. However, this treatment is not recommended for patients with severe spacing, alignment, or damage.
Average Cost Of Porcelain Veneers In Florida
The cost of dental veneers ranges from around $400 to $2,500 per tooth depending on the type of veneer you get. Composite resin veneers are often less expensive but must be replaced or repaired more often. Porcelain veneers are more expensive but look and feel more like natural teeth and typically last 20 years or more with proper care and maintenance. However, if they are damaged, repair is not an option- they must be replaced.
Comparison Between Porcelain Veneers vs. Lumineers
Porcelain Veneers | Lumineers |
Require extensive tooth prep/enamel removal | Requires little tooth prep |
2 or more appointments | 2 or more appointments |
$925 to $2,500 per tooth | $800 to $2,000 per tooth |
Permanent/irreversible | Semi-permanent/reversible |
Last up to 20 years | Last up to 20 years |
Porcelain Veneer Process
Once you have decided to get porcelain dental veneers, the installation procedure can typically be completed in two appointments.
Tooth Prep
The first step is to prepare the tooth, which involves scraping off some of the enamel from the front and sides of the teeth. This will create space for the veneer to fit with the adjacent teeth.
Impression
An impression will be taken of the teeth so that the dental lab can fabricate your custom dental veneers.
Choosing Color
Dr. Baker will show you some different shades and help you find one that best blends with your natural teeth.
Veneer Fabrication
The impressions and your color specifications will be sent to the dental lab for the fabrication of your custom veneers. This usually takes a few weeks, so you may be fitted with temporary veneers to protect the teeth while you wait.
Veneer Placement
During this appointment, the temporary veneers will be removed, and the teeth will be thoroughly cleaned. Dr. Baker will place the permanent veneers on your teeth to ensure proper fit. If minor adjustments are needed, these can usually be done in the office. If you are satisfied with the fit, they will be permanently cemented to your teeth.
Porcelain Veneer Aftercare
You may have some minor discomfort and/or sensitivity for a few days following porcelain veneer placement. However, this can usually be controlled with OTC pain relievers and other at-home remedies. If you have persistent pain, you may need to contact the office.
Porcelain veneers do not require any special care considerations. Simply brushing and flossing as usual can keep them looking good and avoid tooth decay. Regular dental visits are also critical to care for your teeth.
Cost and Financing Options for Veneers
Dental veneers can be expensive, especially since most people choose to have multiple teeth treated. Since this is a cosmetic dental procedure, most dental insurance providers will not cover any portion of the treatment. This means it is an entirely out-of-pocket expense. However, you may be able to finance your treatment with our financing options- just ask our office staff for more information.
Schedule Your Dental Veneer Procedure at Baker Cosmetic & Family Dentistry Today
If you have concerns about the appearance of your smile, schedule your dental veneer consultation with Dr. Baker at Baker Cosmetic & Family Dentistry today in Icot Bvld Unit 101. In addition to dental veneers, we offer other cosmetic procedures that can improve the appearance of your smile and give you the confidence you’re looking for.
Dental Veneers FAQs
If you have questions about dental veneers and other cosmetic procedures at Baker Cosmetic & Family Dentistry, feel free to ask. Dr. Baker believes that patients should be fully informed about procedures and understand their options. Below are some of the most common questions that we’ve gotten about dental veneers:
Most patients would agree that porcelain veneers are worth the investment because they create a perfect smile, which boosts confidence. However, this is a very personal decision.
This depends on your personal needs, expectations, and budget. Lumineers are less expensive but tend to fail sooner than traditional veneers. They require very little tooth prep compared to traditional veneers- but often appear bulky. Traditional porcelain veneers typically last longer and offer a more natural appearance.
Celebrities who are missing teeth are more likely to get dental implants than any other tooth restoration. Celebrities who simply want to improve the appearance of their teeth are more likely to get dental veneers.
On average, porcelain dental veneers will last 20 years or more with proper care and maintenance.
Dental veneers are placed on the front of teeth, which means the back and sides are still exposed and vulnerable to bacteria and plaque buildup- and cavities can develop. Proper oral care habits including brushing and flossing twice daily and visiting the dentist regularly can prevent cavities.
Local anesthesia will be administered before the procedure; therefore, it should not be painful. Patients may experience some minor discomfort in the days following the procedure as they get used to the veneers.
