Porcelain veneers are a popular way to improve your smile. These thin, custom-made covers fit over the front of your teeth to give them a better look. As part of cosmetic dentistry, porcelain veneers are strong, natural-looking, and a great choice for those who want to enhance their smile.
Dr. Todd Canatella often recommends porcelain veneers for patients looking to transform their smiles. As an experienced cosmetic dentist in New Orleans, he works with patients to find the best treatment for their needs.
Porcelain Veneers in New Orleans, LA
Porcelain veneers are thin layers of ceramic material placed on the front of your teeth. They look and reflect light like natural teeth so you get a natural and beautiful smile. Veneers can help with several dental problems, including:
- Discolored Teeth: Teeth can become stained over time from coffee, tea, smoking, or certain medications. Veneers give your teeth a bright uniform color by covering up these stains.
- Worn-Down Teeth: Grinding or everyday use can wear down your teeth. Veneers can restore their size and shape in about two visits without invasive procedures.
- Chipped or Broken Teeth: Accidents or biting down on something hard can break or chip teeth. Veneers cover these flaws so you can use those teeth without pain again.
- Misaligned or Uneven Teeth: Some people have teeth that are uneven or slightly out of place. A veneer can make a crooked tooth look straight and align better with the rest of your teeth.
- Gaps Between Teeth: Veneers can close small gaps between teeth. No more embarrassing speech issues after closing the gap.
The Process of Getting Porcelain Veneers
Getting porcelain veneers involves a few steps. Dr. Canatella guides patients through each phase to ensure the best results. The entire process usually takes a few weeks and includes several visits.
Initial Consultation
During your first visit, Dr. Canatella will examine your teeth and talk with you about your smile goals. He will decide if veneers are the right option for you. He may take X-rays and teeth impressions to plan the treatment carefully.
Preparation
In this step, we remove a small layer of enamel from the teeth to make space for the veneers. The amount the dentist removes is about the same thickness as the veneer itself. Then we will take impressions of your teeth and send them to the local dental lab. There, they will make your custom veneers to our specifications for a perfect fit.
Temporary Veneers
Dr. Canatella may place temporary veneers while you wait for your permanent ones from the lab. These protect your teeth and let you see how the final result might look. Temporary veneers also give you time to adjust to their feel and appearance.
Bonding
Once your veneers are ready, Dr. Canatella will check their fit and color. If everything looks good, he will clean your teeth, and attach the new veneers with a special adhesive. A curing light hardens the adhesive, securing them firmly in place. This step requires great care to ensure a perfect fit and alignment.
Benefits of Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers offer many benefits that go beyond making your teeth look better. They can also improve the function and strength of your teeth.
- Natural Appearance: Veneers look just like real teeth. They reflect light in the same way as enamel so they blend in with the rest of your teeth.
- Stain Resistance: The ceramic material resists stains, so your smile stays bright for years to come.
- Durability: Veneers can last 10–15 years or even longer with the right care. They can handle daily use because of the strong bond they have on your teeth.
- Custom Fit: Veneers match the size, shape, and color of your teeth. The fit will be so seamless that you may even forget you have them.
- Less Invasive: Veneers require less enamel removal versus other dental treatments. This makes the process easier and preserves more of your natural tooth.
Caring for Your Porcelain Veneers
Taking proper care of your porcelain veneers helps them last longer and stay looking great. You can keep your smile healthy and your veneers in top condition for years with good care.
Brush and floss your teeth every day to keep your mouth clean and healthy. Use a non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching or damaging the veneers. Daily brushing and flossing remove plaque and food buildup to prevent tooth decay and gum problems.
Regular dental checkups are also important. Visiting our New Orleans dental office lets us check the condition of your veneers and address any concerns early. Professional cleanings keep your veneers and natural teeth clean and free of stains. During these visits, we can also give you tips on how to care for your veneers based on your daily habits.
Be careful about what you bite or chew as well. Avoid hard items like ice, pens, or tough foods that could chip or crack your veneers. Keeping this in mind helps protect their shape and strength.
Even though porcelain veneers resist stains, it’s a good idea to limit foods and drinks that can cause stains. Cutting back on coffee, red wine, and dark tea can help your veneers stay bright and beautiful for longer.
Porcelain veneers are a reliable way to achieve the results you need to feel your best. Whether you’re looking to fix discoloration, chips, or gaps, veneers can provide a natural, lasting solution. Call Dr. Canatella in New Orleans at 504-385-1092 to see if porcelain veneers are the right choice for you.