“Will they damage my teeth?” And Other FAQs about Porcelain Veneers

Is one of your resolutions for 2024 to improve the look of your smile? If so, cosmetic dentistry can help you achieve your goals and enjoy greater confidence in the new year. While there are many cosmetic treatments to choose from, porcelain veneers offer some of the most stunning and transformative results. By completely covering the front of your teeth, they can conceal a wide variety of esthetic problems.

At Chisholm Trail Smile Center in Duncan, OK, we offer porcelain veneers as one of our many cosmetic treatments. Dr. Matthew Bridges is a proud member of the American Academy of Facial Esthetics. Thanks to his extensive training, he can provide stunning results that will look totally natural. At the same time, our veneers can give you a bigger, brighter smile that looks years younger.

To learn more about veneers and to schedule your consultation, contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center today.

Will veneers damage my teeth?

It is a myth that veneers will harm your teeth. To place them, Dr. Bridges will need to remove a very small amount of enamel. This will ensure that the porcelain lies flush against your teeth for the most natural look possible.

The amount of enamel removed is minimal, so treatment will not compromise your teeth or increase your risk for decay. At the same time, it does mean that veneers are a permanent commitment. If you lose a veneer or one is damaged, you will need to replace it. Removing enamel also means that you may experience some dental sensitivity, but this will typically resolve itself within a few weeks.

What problems can veneers correct?

Porcelain veneers can address a huge range of concerns, including:

Misshapen teeth
Disproportionately small teeth
Tiny gaps between teeth
Small chips
Worn or crooked edges
Dark internal discoloration

How do I know if I am a candidate for treatment?

If you struggle with any of the concerns mentioned above, you may be a good candidate for porcelain veneers. Because of the preparation process, however, it is important that you have healthy enamel to begin with. If you have sustained tooth erosion or dental decay, another treatment may be more appropriate. Ultimately, a cosmetic consultation is the only way to determine your candidacy.

How long will they last?

Studies indicate that most porcelain veneers last at least ten years, though many can last fifteen or twenty years. The lifespan will depend on a number of factors, including the skill of your dentist, your overall oral health, and how well you care for your veneers.

What are my other treatment options?

If you are not a candidate for porcelain veneers, or if you are not ready to commit to this treatment, you have plenty of additional options. Dental bonding, sometimes called composite resin veneers, offers similar results and can correct the same problems as veneers. At the same time, bonding is not as durable and may not look quite as realistic. Other treatment options include tooth contouring, whitening, and dental crowns.