At Saco River Dentistry, we understand how important a smile can be. A healthy, welcoming grin expresses happiness, openness, and connection. However, if you’re uncomfortable with the appearance or function of your teeth, you may avoid smiling or experience feelings of self-consciousness when opening your mouth. Damage, decay, staining, and other dental concerns are very common—but that doesn’t mean you have to live with them. At our practice, we offer cosmetic dental veneers that can effectively address a wide range of issues with exceptional, natural-looking results. Our experienced cosmetic dentists are committed to helping you achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of.
- What Are Porcelain Veneers?
- Porcelain Veneers Benefits
- Porcelain Veneers Vs. Crowns
- Porcelain Veneers Procedure
- Porcelain Veneers Safety
- Porcelain Veneers Care
- Porcelain Veneers Results
- Porcelain Veneers Alternatives
- Porcelain Veneers Cost
- Porcelain Veneers Insurance
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
Dental veneers are thin shells or caps that can be placed on top of the existing teeth to conceal cosmetic imperfections such as staining or cracks. We use porcelain veneers, the most sought-after choice, because porcelain is a highly durable material that can be personalized to match the translucency and beauty of your natural tooth enamel. We also utilize the latest techniques, which make it possible to shape your teeth with minimal filing for a stronger and more natural-looking outcome. Each veneer is custom-made, and they are designed to be very long-lasting.
What Are the Benefits of Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments available. They are designed to conceal damaged and/or dingy teeth and restore the beauty of your smile. Additionally, enhancing the symmetry of your teeth can bring all your facial features into better proportion. Porcelain veneers can correct a wide range of concerns, including:
- Chips, gaps, cracks, spaces, and mild misalignment
- “Short” or worn down teeth
- Asymmetrical or uneven teeth
- Yellowing and discoloration, including stains caused by medications
- Areas of weakness among the teeth
Our patients love porcelain veneers because they are very resistant to staining and tough enough for real life. As a result, your smile should be brighter, more aesthetically appealing, and stronger than before treatment.
Porcelain Veneers Vs. Dental Crowns
Porcelain veneers and dental crowns are typically used for different purposes, but in some cases patients may have a choice between the two treatments. Porcelain veneers are more commonly used for cosmetic enhancement, to improve the appearance of the smile when aesthetic issues, rather than functional ones, cause concern. Dental crowns are the opposite. They are usually recommended to strengthen damaged teeth, to cap a tooth after a root canal, or to top off a dental implant. That said, porcelain veneers require less aggressive modification of the tooth. Therefore, if a tooth is only lightly damaged, it may make sense to use a porcelain veneer rather than a dental crown. During your initial consultation, our dentists will go over all of your options and help you select the right approach for you.
What Should I Expect From the Veneers Procedure?
When you arrive at our practice, one of our dentists will evaluate your oral structures, discuss your concerns, and develop a customized treatment plan based on your goals. We’re here to help you make the best decision for your needs and desired result, and we will never upsell or push a procedure you don’t need. When it comes to technology, our office is state-of-the-art. When it comes to service, we proudly maintain a small town approach. We believe going to the dentist should be a pleasant experience, and we will provide attentive, personalized care at every stage of the process.
At your initial consultation, you’re encouraged to talk to us about what you like and dislike about your smile, ask questions, and collaborate on your treatment plan. We will show you images from our dental treatment before-and-after gallery so you can get an idea of what can be accomplished.
The first step will involve preparing (gently reshaping) your teeth and taking a mold. This model will be used to guide the creation of the porcelain veneers for the most precise fit possible. During the second appointment, your teeth will be cleaned, and then each customized veneer will be individually affixed to the tooth’s surface using cement bonding. Veneers are color-tinted to match your existing teeth or to suit your needs and preferences. We make every effort to give you a pleasant and comfortable experience, and most patients report little to no discomfort.
Are Porcelain Veneers Safe?
Porcelain veneers are considered a very safe and effective cosmetic dental treatment when performed by an experienced dentist. The procedure involves removing only a very small amount of enamel to allow the veneers to fit securely and look natural, which helps preserve the health and strength of your teeth. Porcelain is a biocompatible material—meaning it is well-tolerated by the gums and surrounding tissues—and it does not cause allergic reactions or irritation for most patients.
At Saco River Dentistry, our dentists take every precaution to ensure that your veneers are placed precisely and comfortably. We use advanced digital imaging and modern bonding techniques that minimize risk and maximize long-term stability. With proper care, veneers can protect the underlying teeth while dramatically improving the appearance of your smile.
How Do I Care for My Porcelain Veneers?
One of the best features of cosmetic veneers is the easy maintenance. You should care for your new smile the same as you would your natural teeth—with regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups. At Saco River Dentistry, we want you to feel confident in your smile. And our advanced techniques, technology, and materials are designed to give you an outcome you can be proud to show off.
How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?
Two primary factors will affect how long your porcelain veneers will last: the quality of the cosmetic dentist you choose to perform the procedure, and how well you care for your veneers. Our dentists are extensively trained in the latest techniques and use the highest-quality materials. As for home maintenance, you should brush and floss daily as you would normally, and visit the dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups. Many individuals who follow these guidelines are able to enjoy their veneers for decades.
Are There Alternatives to Porcelain Veneers?
While porcelain veneers are an excellent option for many patients, they’re not the only way to enhance your smile. Depending on your needs, goals, and the condition of your teeth, our dentists may recommend one or more of the following alternatives:
- Dental Bonding: Uses tooth-colored resin to repair small chips, cracks, or discoloration. It’s typically less costly and can often be completed in one visit, but it’s not as durable as porcelain and the results will likely not last as long.
- Teeth Whitening: Ideal for addressing mild to moderate stains and discoloration when the teeth are otherwise healthy and properly shaped.
- Dental Crowns: Better suited for teeth with structural damage or decay that require more protection than veneers can provide.
- Invisalign®: For spacing or alignment issues, a clear aligner system such as Invisalign or another orthodontic solution may present a more effective solution.
During your consultation, our team will review all available options and help you decide which treatment best matches your goals for comfort, appearance, and longevity.
How Much Do Porcelain Veneers Cost?
The price of porcelain veneers will depend on the number of veneers you have placed and the complexity of your treatment. We understand that cost can be a very important factor in your decision-making process, and we will provide a detailed explanation of the total cost of your program during your initial consultation. As a convenience to our patients, we offer a range of dental financing options in addition to working with most dental insurance companies. We want you to feel comfortable, confident, and excited about your procedure, so please don’t hesitate to ask any questions or voice concerns that may arise. We are here to help.
Does Insurance Cover Porcelain Veneers?
In most cases, porcelain veneers are considered an elective cosmetic procedure, so dental insurance typically does not cover their cost. With that in mind, at Saco River Dentistry, we believe everyone deserves a smile they feel confident sharing. Our team will review your insurance benefits, provide a transparent cost estimate, and explain all available payment and financing options before treatment begins. As noted above, we also partner with reputable third-party lenders to make it easier to budget for your new smile comfortably and affordably.
For more information about dental veneers, or to schedule a consultation with one of our Saco Dentistry doctors, please contact us online or call (207) 929-3900 today.
