Porcelain Veneers in Fox Lake, IL, are the perfect cosmetic dentistry treatment to transform your smile. We custom-make them from quality materials for your unique smile. We will even color match them to blend in with your natural teeth or to help you make your teeth whiter.
Dental veneers are a great solution for helping you achieve a smile that you will look forward to sharing with others each day. A single veneer covers a tooth, or we can use multiple veneers to treat multiple teeth as part of a smile transformation.
About Porcelain Veneers in Fox Lake, IL
Porcelain veneers are similar to dental crowns, but they cover the front and sometimes sides of the teeth rather than the entire tooth. They are custom-made from fine, tooth-like porcelain material. A dentist will bond them to your teeth for a permanent fit. Advances in materials and technology make today’s porcelain veneers look and feel more like natural teeth.
At Infinity Dental in Fox Lake, IL, Dr. Prendergast offers porcelain and composite resin dental veneers.
Porcelain veneers treat one tooth or several teeth for a complete smile makeover. They can effectively address a variety of cosmetic and restorative dental concerns, including:
- Closing spaces between teeth
- Repairing chipped or broken teeth
- Covering stains or discoloration in teeth
- Straightening crooked or uneven teeth
- Fixing worn-down teeth
Porcelain veneers may also be used to correct crooked teeth. If no bite problems are present, patients can choose to use these instead of braces or clear aligners.
Porcelain veneers are a great treatment option for many reasons. They are very comfortable and feel natural. Your gums and soft tissues tolerate them well and rarely cause problems. They look natural—your dentist will match them perfectly to your other teeth so they blend right in.
Unlike dental crowns, they do not require as much tooth reshaping. Your dentist will remove less of your natural tooth structure to make room for your restoration. Veneers resist stains well and hold up over time. This is beneficial because veneers are a permanent restoration you’ll have for years.
What is the Porcelain Veneer Process Like?
Placing porcelain veneers typically requires two visits to our office. The procedure begins with a comprehensive evaluation of the teeth, mouth, and jaw. It can also include any necessary x-rays and a medical and dental history review.
After creating your treatment plan, Dr. Prendergast will review your smile goals and explain all costs upfront. This allows you to make an informed decision.
We will remove a small amount of tooth surface structure to prepare your teeth and accommodate space for the veneers. Next, Dr. Prendergast will take dental impressions. A dental lab will use these impressions to make your custom porcelain veneers.
They color match them to blend in with the rest of your natural teeth. Typically, we place temporary dental veneers over the teeth to protect them until your permanent veneers are ready.
When your veneers are ready, you’ll return to our Fox Lake office for the final fitting. Dr. Prendergast will try the veneers on your teeth to check the fit and color. When you love your new smile, we’ll permanently attach your veneers with a strong dental adhesive.
Composite Veneers vs Porcelain Veneers
Composite and porcelain veneers both improve your smile, but they work differently and have unique benefits. Composite veneers are a composite resin; your dentist will sculpt them directly onto your teeth. The procedure is not invasive since your dentist will not need to remove enamel.
In most cases, we can complete the treatment in a single visit. They are also fairly inexpensive and easy to repair. However, they only have a lifespan of about 4 to 8 years. They are also more prone to staining and discoloration over time.
Porcelain veneers are thin, see-through shells that look just like natural teeth. The procedure is more invasive, requiring enamel removal and several visits to complete.
This type of veneer is harder to repair and is a permanent treatment. Porcelain veneers are also more expensive. However, veneers made from porcelain are far superior and much more durable. They can last for 15 years or more and will resist stains.
Dental Veneers FAQs
Porcelain veneers are an excellent option for enhancing their smile by concealing various dental imperfections. Whether you have stained, chipped, misaligned, or unevenly spaced teeth, porcelain veneers offer a versatile solution. The following FAQ section will explore some of the most frequently asked questions about porcelain veneers.
Can you get a cavity with porcelain veneers?
The best part about dental veneers is that they are not susceptible to decay, so there is no threat of getting a cavity. Modern dental veneers are much more dependable and enduring than their older counterparts.
Can you get teeth whitening with porcelain veneers?
They are more stain-resistant than natural teeth and can maintain their beautiful appearance daily with good oral hygiene. You will not need to whiten them in the future.
How long do porcelain veneers last?
Porcelain veneers are durable and designed to last for many years. Proper care, maintenance, and regular dental visits can extend their lifespan. Good oral hygiene and avoiding habits like teeth grinding can also extend their lifespan.
Do porcelain veneers feel natural?
Because we prepare teeth before veneer treatment, we ensure that the veneers will not look or feel bulky. We shape your teeth slightly so the veneers fit perfectly, keeping them comfortable and natural-looking. It will take time to adjust to veneers, but once you are accustomed to your new smile, it will feel natural.
Can you replace porcelain veneers?
Veneers are long-lasting treatments, but a dental professional can replace them. We typically need to replace veneers after 15 or more years. The better you care for your dental veneers, the longer they will last.
How many porcelain veneers do I need?
Each patient is different. You will only need one veneer if you have a discolored or damaged tooth. However, if you want to treat all the teeth that show when you smile, as many as eight veneers can cover all of the teeth in the smile line.
Schedule a Dental Exam Today
Are you ready for a new, beautiful smile? If you want to learn more about how porcelain veneers can improve your smile, make an appointment with Infinity Dental of Fox Lake today.