Why Should I Get Porcelain Veneers?

Are you unhappy with your smile? Would you like to turn it up a notch? Are you looking for something more than whitening? Maybe it is time for you to consider getting porcelain veneers. These custom-made tooth coverings can help you cover up chipped, misshapen, or discolored teeth and give you the Hollywood smile you have always dreamed about.

We are proud to offer porcelain veneers as an option to all our patients here at our Santa Barbara office.

What Are Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain veneers are thin, tooth-colored porcelain shells that fit over your natural teeth to give them a brighter, more even look. They are custom-made to fit each tooth and are permanently bonded to your natural teeth. Porcelain veneers are generally only used on the front teeth.

What Are the Benefits of Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain veneers improve the look of your smile and increase your self-confidence. They are stain-resistant and can last up to 15 years. They improve both the look of your teeth and make them stronger. The process for getting porcelain veneers is quick, easy, and non-invasive.

Who Needs Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain veneers are an optional cosmetic dental procedure. They are a good fit for anyone who has front teeth that are chipped, stained, misshapen, weak, or discolored. Porcelain veneers will correct all these issues and give you an outstanding smile.

Are Porcelain Veneers Permanent?

Porcelain veneers are semi-permanent. They will last anywhere from 7-15 years with proper care. 

Why Choose Porcelain Veneers Over Resin Veneers?

Resin veneers are not as strong as porcelain veneers and are less stain-resistant. They also do not last as long. This makes porcelain veneers a better choice to ensure you get the best smile for as long as possible.

Will I Be on a Limited Diet if I Get Porcelain Veneers?

Absolutely not! There are no dietary restrictions for someone with porcelain veneers. You can eat and drink whatever you wish.

Do I Need to take Special Steps to Care for my Porcelain Veneers?

The answer to this is a resounding no. All you have to do to take care of your porcelain veneers is follow your normal oral hygiene routine. Make sure you also come into the Santa Barbara office for your regular checkups too, of course. 

How Stain Resistant Are Porcelain Veneers?

Believe it or not, they are more stain resistant than your natural teeth. They are much less likely to become discolored from chocolate, coffee, red wine, and similar foods. If they do become discolored over time, our staff will be happy to speak with you about options for brightening them up again. 

What Is the Process for Getting Porcelain Veneers?

Obtaining porcelain veneers requires two visits to our Santa Barbara office. At the first visit, you will consult with the doctor and get an exam and x-rays to make certain that porcelain veneers are a good fit for you. 

The doctor will then shape your teeth to prepare them for the veneers. Finally, an impression of your teeth will be created and sent off to a lab where your veneers will be custom-made. The veneers will be delivered to the office in a few weeks, and you will return to have them permanently bonded to your teeth.

How Are Porcelain Veneers Applied to Teeth?

Your new porcelain veneers will first be fit-tested on your teeth to make certain they fit correctly. Your teeth will be shaped again as necessary to get the best fit. Each tooth that is to get a veneer will be cleaned and polished. 

The teeth will then be etched to ensure a good bond with the cement and the veneers will be applied with a tooth-colored cement. A special light will be used to harden the cement. Excess cement will be trimmed, and you will be good to go. You will need to return to the Santa Barbara office after a few weeks for a follow-up to see how your porcelain veneers are doing.

Is Getting Porcelain Veneers Painful?

The process for obtaining porcelain veneers is generally painless. That said, we will use a local anesthetic to numb your teeth during the first visit to eliminate any discomfort you might feel while your teeth are being shaped.

Are There Any Alternatives to Porcelain Veneers?

You have many options to choose from if you do not want to get porcelain veneers or if they are not a good fit for you. Dental crowns are a popular option. Dental bonding and teeth whitening are two other options. When you come into the office for your consultation, we will discuss all your cosmetic dentistry options and help you choose the one that is right for you.

How Much Do Porcelain Veneers Cost?

Porcelain veneers are a cosmetic dental procedure, and unfortunately, that means that most dental insurance companies will not pay for them. Do check with your insurance carrier, however, so that you do not miss out on any benefits you might have!

The cost will vary based on your individual teeth and the difficulty of creating veneers for them. The price generally ranges from around $900 per tooth up to $2500 per tooth.

We hear at See Me Smile Dental and Orthodontics want to be sure that you get the dental care you need now, so we offer a variety of financing options and payment plans. Please speak with our staff if you think these options might be helpful for you.

Ready To Find Out if Porcelain Veneers Are Right for You?

The staff here at See Me Smile Dental & Orthodontics is dedicated to helping you obtain the smile you have always wanted. We offer the latest in dental care and techniques in a modern, innovative office right here in Santa Barbara. We even offer flexible appointment times to help you fit your dental care into your busy life.

Call (805) 284-0826 today and schedule your consultation for porcelain veneers with See Me Smile Dental and Orthodontics!