Redesign Your Smile
Why People Love De Zavala Dental and Braces
Crafting Beautiful Smiles in San Antonio
What Are Veneers?
Veneers are thin, custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of teeth. Made from tooth-colored materials, such as porcelain or resin composite, they are ideal for enhancing your smile's appearance. Veneers are a popular choice for those looking to correct a variety of dental imperfections.
Transforming Your Smile with Veneers
Veneers offer a versatile solution to many common dental concerns. They can:
- Brighten Teeth: Perfect for teeth that have not responded to whitening treatments.
- Conceal Chips and Cracks: Restore the appearance of damaged teeth.
- Align and Reshape: Correct minor misalignments or irregularly shaped teeth.
- Close Gaps: Provide a seamless look by closing spaces between teeth.
Prep Veneers vs. No-Prep Veneers: Understanding the Differences
Prep Veneers
Prep veneers, often made from porcelain, require the removal of a small amount of tooth enamel to ensure a proper fit and natural look. This process involves:
- Reshaping the Tooth Surface: A thin layer of enamel, typically less than a millimeter, is removed to make space for the veneer.
- Customization for a Natural Look: This allows the veneers to align perfectly with your natural teeth, providing a seamless appearance.
- Permanence: Due to the enamel removal, this process is irreversible, making it a long-term commitment to your smile's appearance.
No-Prep Veneers
No-prep veneers, as the name suggests, require little to no removal of tooth enamel. They are often thinner than traditional veneers and can be directly placed over your existing teeth. Their features include:
- Minimal Tooth Alteration: Little to no enamel is removed, preserving more of your natural tooth structure.
- Faster and Less Invasive Procedure: The process is generally quicker and less invasive than traditional veneers.
- Reversibility: In some cases, no-prep veneers can be removed if desired, as the natural tooth structure remains largely intact.
Judgment-free Care
Exceptional Team
The Veneers Process at De Zavala Dental and Braces
At De Zavala Dental and Braces, we are committed to excellence in cosmetic dentistry. Our state-of-the-art facility, combined with a team that treats every patient like family, ensures that your veneer journey is as comfortable as it is transformative. We take pride in creating natural-looking, beautiful veneers that reflect our dedication to artistry and quality.
1. Initial Consultation
2. Custom Design and Preparation
3. Crafting Your Veneers
4. Fitting and Adjustments
5. Bonding
6. Aftercare and Follow-Up
Your Comprehensive Dental Care Destination
Convenient Scheduling
Transparent, Affordable Care
Advanced Dental Technology
Frequently Asked Questions
What are veneers?
Veneers are thin, custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of teeth. They are typically made from porcelain or resin composite materials and are used to improve the appearance of your smile.
What dental issues can veneers address?
Veneers are versatile and can address various cosmetic concerns, including teeth that are discolored, worn down, chipped, misaligned, uneven, or have gaps between them.
How long do veneers last?
The lifespan of veneers varies, but generally, porcelain veneers can last between 10 to 15 years, and resin composite veneers around 5 to 7 years. Their longevity depends on the material used and how well they are cared for.
Are veneers permanent?
Getting traditional veneers is a generally irreversible process because it involves removing a small amount of tooth enamel to fit the veneer. No-prep veneers are less invasive and, in some cases, can be reversible.
Do veneers look like natural teeth?
Yes, one of the significant advantages of veneers is that they are made to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, giving a natural and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Is the veneer procedure painful?
The process of getting veneers typically involves minimal discomfort. Local anesthesia can be used during the preparation phase to minimize any pain, and most patients do not report significant discomfort during or after the procedure.
How many appointments are needed to get veneers?
Typically, getting veneers requires two to three visits over a few weeks – one for the consultation and planning, one for preparing the teeth and taking impressions, and another for applying the veneers.
Can veneers stain?
Porcelain veneers are highly stain-resistant. However, resin composite veneers may be more prone to staining over time, similar to natural teeth.
How much do veneers cost?
The cost of veneers varies depending on several factors, including the number of veneers and the material chosen. At De Zavala Dental and Braces, we provide a clear cost breakdown and discuss financing options during your consultation.
How long does the veneer process take from start to finish?
The veneer process typically takes a few weeks, including the initial consultation, preparation, fabrication, and application. The result is a radiant smile that's well worth the wait.
Can I eat and drink normally with veneers?
Yes, you can enjoy your favorite foods and beverages with veneers. They are resistant to staining, so you won't need to worry about discoloration.
Do veneers require special maintenance?
Veneers do not demand any unique care. You can maintain them just like your natural teeth with regular oral hygiene and dental visits.
How do I care for my veneers?
Maintaining veneers is simple. Regular oral hygiene practices, such as brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups, are essential. Avoiding excessive forces on your teeth, like biting hard objects, will help prolong the lifespan of your veneers.
Are veneers permanent?
Yes, because they are bonded to your teeth and can only be removed by a dentist, they are considered permanent. However, they will eventually need to be repaired or placed, but veneers are long-lasting and can endure for many years with proper care and maintenance.
How do I know if I'm a good candidate for veneers?
An initial consultation with our skilled dentist will help determine if veneers are right for you. Generally, candidates should have good oral health, sufficient tooth enamel, and realistic smile goals.