Porcelain veneers are thin, tooth-shaped shells that are adhered to the front side of visible teeth. They can correct an array of teeth imperfections such as chips, cracks, stains, oddly shaped or unevenly sized teeth, and misalignment or spacing issues. Since porcelain veneers are highly customizable, they are an ideal choice for a dramatic smile makeover that will for years to come. Because of this, porcelain veneers are the second most popular cosmetic dental treatment behind teeth whitening.

Did You Know?

Porcelain veneers offer patients the following benefits:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Am I a candidate for porcelain veneers?

You may be a candidate for porcelain veneers if your teeth have cosmetic imperfections that you would like to improve. Porcelain veneer can be used to fix the following imperfections:

To determine if porcelain veneers are right for you, schedule a consultation with Sedation Dental Care at Raleigh Smile Center today. During your consultation, your dentist will carefully examine your teeth, gums, and mouth to determine if porcelain veneers are a good option for you. They will also ask you about your cosmetic goals and answer any questions you may have about the process.

What can I expect when having porcelain veneers placed?

Porcelain veneers are indirect restorations that are fabricated in a dental lab and placed over the course of at least two dental appointments. During the first appointment, your teeth will be prepared by lightly buffing and shaping the enamel to accommodate the veneers. In most cases, very little enamel is removed since the veneers are extremely thin. After preparing the teeth, a dental impression will be taken and the color of your veneers will be decided.

Once the dental lab has completed your veneers, you will return to the office for your second appointment to have the permanent veneers placed. Your teeth will first be cleansed with a special liquid that helps achieve a strong bond with the adhesive. Then, dental cement will be placed between the tooth and veneer, and hardened in place with a special curing light. This process will be repeated for each tooth.

Will I need to follow any special instructions after having veneers placed?

After having veneers placed, you can return to your normal routine. To care for your veneers, you will need to maintain proper oral hygiene and attend regular dental exams and cleanings. If properly cared for, porcelain veneers can last for up to 15 years.

Can dental sedation be used?

Yes! Dental sedation, also known as anxiety-free dentistry, is ideal for individuals who have dental anxiety, a sensitive gag reflex, or for those who simply want to relax during their dental procedure. Your dental sedation options include:

For more information about dental sedation, visit our dental sedation page or call our office to schedule a consultation.