Don’t let chipped, cracked, or discolored teeth stop you from smiling with confidence. At West Brazos Dental Center in West Columbia, Texas, the team of experienced family dentists provides veneers, thin layers of porcelain that can restore the appearance of discolored teeth and cover up imperfections. To learn more about veneers, schedule a consultation online or over the phone.

Veneers Q & A

What are veneers?

Veneers are thin strips of porcelain that cover up imperfections in your teeth. They look like healthy enamel and are highly durable, but unlike real enamel, they’re resistant to stains. Your dentist bonds veneers to the front surfaces of your natural teeth, giving you a whiter, healthier-looking smile that can potentially last for decades.

You may consider veneers if your teeth have become yellow or brown from smoking, foods, or beverages, but whitening hasn’t worked, or you want a longer-lasting solution. In addition to discoloration, veneers can help cover up cosmetic issues including:

Cracked teeth

Chipped teeth

Irregularly shaped teeth

You may get one veneer if you have just one injured tooth. Some people get veneers on all of the teeth that are visible when they talk or smile.

Keep in mind that, unlike orthodontics, or more involved procedures like crowns, implants, and bridges, veneers don’t have much of an effect on the function or alignment of your teeth. They can make your teeth stronger by replacing lost enamel, but they mainly cover up imperfections. With your input, your dentist determines if veneers are the right solution for your dental concerns.

What can I expect from a veneer procedure?

The procedure to get veneers at West Brazos Dental Center requires two visits.

Your veneers are custom made at an outside dental lab, so at your first appointment, your dentist takes impressions of your teeth to ensure a good fit. Your dentist also helps you pick a shade of veneer that looks natural and effectively covers up your imperfections. You may also need your dentist to remove a bit of enamel from your teeth so they can accommodate your veneers.

At your second appointment, your dentist cleans your teeth, then bonds your veneers to your teeth using a special adhesive.

For a couple of weeks after your procedure, talking or eating may not feel totally natural. Your dentist schedules a follow-up appointment to make sure you’re adjusting to your veneers and answer any questions you may have.

How do I take care of my veneers?

Porcelain veneers are durable, but it’s still important to practice good oral hygiene and treat them like your natural teeth. Be sure to brush and floss regularly and schedule regular cleanings and checkups at West Brazos Dental Center, and see your dentist as soon as possible if your veneer feels loose. You may need to wear a nightguard if you grind or clench your teeth, as this can cause veneers to chip or break.

With proper care, porcelain veneers can last 10 years or even longer.

To learn more about veneers, schedule a consultation at West Brazos Dental Center.