Nothing commemorates an important occasion like a great photo, and nothing complements a photograph like a big, attractive smile. If you are counting down the days until an anniversary event, family reunion, or wedding, it may be time to consider making porcelain veneers part of that special occasion.
Doctor Helen Ragsdale offers porcelain veneers for individuals in and around Austin, TX. Porcelain veneers are thin porcelain shells that are bonded directly to the front of your teeth. The conservative but extremely effective cosmetic procedure can address:
- Misaligned teeth
- Crooked teeth
- Discolored teeth
- Chipped teeth
- Misshapen teeth
How Far Ahead Should I Plan My Porcelain Veneer Placement?
You will want to schedule your porcelain veneer placement at least one month ahead of the event and preferably several weeks in advance. There are two reasons for this. One, the straightforward treatment requires two visits to our Austin dental office. After a mold is made of your teeth at the initial visit, it may take a few weeks for your new porcelain veneers to arrive. Secondly, there can be a short adjustment period after your veneers are placed.
Some patients report temperature sensitivity and new sensations associated with the veneers in the days and weeks following placement. This is due to the fact that a small amount of enamel is removed from the front of your teeth to create room for your new veneers. While minor side effects are common, they will subside in the days and weeks following your cosmetic procedure.
If you have specific questions about when your porcelain veneers can be placed, Dr. Ragsdale will be glad to explain the treatment timeline in detail.
What Are the Benefits of Porcelain Veneers?
If you have always wanted a pristine, celebrity-level smile, porcelain veneers can deliver drastic results. The shells improve the size and shape of your visible teeth, and they can also deliver a drastically whiter smile. During your cosmetic consultation with Dr. Ragsdale, you will be able to decide what shade of white you want your veneers to be.
Porcelain offers natural-looking results that can either be color-matched to your existing teeth or increased by several shades for more dramatic results. Porcelain is also highly stain-resistant, although will still want to avoid or cut back on foods and drinks that are known to cause discoloration (coffee, tea, certain juices, etc). One benefit of porcelain veneers over cosmetic dental bonding is that veneers last for several years or longer when maintained and cleaned.
Who Is a Candidate for Porcelain Veneers?
The vast majority of patients who seek the life-changing benefits of porcelain veneers are good candidates for the procedure. Candidates should have healthy teeth and gums. Untreated gum disease and decay can shorten the lifespan of veneers.
Candidates are generally unhappy with the appearance of their anterior (front-facing) teeth. If your teeth are significantly misaligned, you may be a better candidate for Invisalign treatments.
Schedule Your Porcelain Veneer Consultation Today
If you are counting down the days until a special occasion and have concerns about the appearance of your teeth, you may be a candidate for porcelain veneers. Veneers allow you to look your best (and even a few years younger) on that special day. To schedule your consultation, contact our Austin, TX office online or call (512) 346-4690.
