Veneers

Planning and placing veneers typically requires two dental appointments with Dr. Hernandez over a two-week span. During the first appointment, he will examine the teeth that need veneers and take impressions. A small amount of tooth structure may need to be removed to accommodate the veneers. This is necessary to create a snug fit. The impressions are sent to the dental laboratory that fabricates the veneers. Dr. Hernandez will place temporary veneers while the permanent veneers are being made. Wearing the temporary veneers is helpful because you can provide feedback to tweak the permanent veneers for a better fit and feel. It is normal to feel slight sensitivity to hot or cold foods or beverages while adjusting to the temporaries.

Once your permanent veneers are ready — they usually take about two weeks to make — you will return to the office for your second appointment. Dr. Hernandez will remove your temporary veneers and place the permanent restorations. The veneers slip over the surface of the teeth and are bonded into place with a strong dental adhesive. Once the veneers are in place, Dr. Hernandez will make any last-minute adjustments as needed.

If placed properly, porcelain veneers can last for many years without a problem. The teeth need to be brushed and flossed as normal. Because a small bit of tooth enamel is removed to make space for the veneers, treatment is not reversible.

How many dental appointments will I need for my porcelain veneers?

Dental veneers are placed and fitted over the course of two dental appointments over the course of two weeks. If the veneers are properly fitted, there is no need for follow-up appointments. However, if you feel like your veneers are not a good fit and you experience difficulty chewing or eating, you will need to come into Dr. Hernandez’ office so he can make adjustments to your veneers.

Is there any downtime following the procedure?

There is typically no downtime after treatment. However, you may have some sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures due to the removal of a thin layer of enamel. This discomfort typically disappears within a few days.

Is the procedure painful?

The procedure is typically performed using a local anesthetic to numb the treated areas, and Dr. Hernandez and his friendly staff make every effort to make it as painless as possible. We also offer other sedation options to alleviate any anxiety you may be feeling.

Will my porcelain veneers be a good fit?

Porcelain veneers are custom-molded from an impression Dr. Hernandez and his team will create of your teeth in a dental laboratory. These veneers are specifically designed for the best possible fit on your tooth. They are bonded into place with a strong dental adhesive.

Will my porcelain veneers look natural?

Yes! Porcelain veneers are designed to mimic the look and feel of natural teeth. They are made of a very strong porcelain material with a translucent quality and color to match the rest of your teeth.

How long do porcelain veneers last?

With proper care and maintenance, porcelain veneers are long-lasting. The typical lifespan of porcelain veneers is anywhere from 10 to 15 years, but it is not uncommon for veneers to last for decades and even lifetimes in some patients.

How do I take care of my porcelain veneers?

You should care for your veneers like you would your natural teeth. Good hygiene habits like brushing and flossing regularly are essential to maintain your new flawless smile. You should also avoid biting on hard foods and objects (e.g., bottle caps, fingernails) that can potentially crack or fracture your veneers.

How much do dental veneers cost?

The cost of porcelain veneers varies from patient to patient. Porcelain veneers typically range in cost from $1,200 to $1500 per tooth. Dr. Hernandez can give you a more accurate cost estimate following an appointment.

Does dental insurance cover dental veneers?

Because porcelain veneers are considered to be an elective cosmetic procedure, they are usually not covered by dental insurance. However, Dr. Hernandez offers several affordable financing options for patients who wish to enhance their smile with veneers or other cosmetic treatments. To learn more about financing options, speak to a member of the Pacific Beach Smile Studio team today.