Porcelain Veneers Erie, PA

Porcelain veneers are thin fronts of advanced ceramic that fit onto your natural teeth. By giving your teeth an entirely new visible surface, they can transform the appearance of your smile. Because we apply veneers to each tooth separately, you can choose how much you want to change your smile, from fixing a single unattractive tooth to getting an entirely new smile.

People often wonder about the difference between veneers and Lumineers. Lumineers are a brand of dental veneers. They work a little differently than traditional veneers. Where we typically prepare your teeth to make room for traditional veneers, Lumineers fit onto your teeth with little or no preparation. Lumineers use a patented formula ceramic. They can be thinner than traditional veneers, often fitting right onto your teeth without making them look too bulky.

During your consultation our Erie, PA cosmetic dentist will talk to you about both options so you can know which one is right for you.

It can often be better for these concerns than alternative treatments. For example, teeth whitening can brighten discolored teeth. However, whitening can only brighten teeth as much as your natural enamel allows. Plus, it doesn’t work on all types of discoloration. Veneers can brighten your smile and make your teeth as bright as you desire.

Similarly, you can use orthodontics to straighten crooked teeth or close gaps in your smile, but it takes months, if not years. With veneers, you can sometimes straighten teeth and close gaps in less than a month. That’s why people sometimes call porcelain veneers “instant orthodontics.”

The porcelain veneer process begins with a consultation. You’ll explain what you’re looking for in your new smile, and Dr. Tucker will listen. He’ll also look at any pictures or videos you have to help explain the change you want to make. He might also perform a dental exam, including x-rays or other imagery. Then he’ll recommend veneers if he thinks they will help you achieve your goals. You can look over the treatment plan, including a cost estimate. If you agree to the treatment plan, you’ll schedule your next appointment.

At the second appointment, Dr. Tucker will prepare your teeth and take dental impressions. Removing a small amount of tooth enamel helps veneers fit better. Even Lumineers sometimes benefit from this step. Once your teeth are ready, Dr. Tucker will take impressions of your teeth. We will send these impressions to a dental lab, where they will craft your veneers. In the meantime, we will fit you with attractive temporary veneers.

When your veneers are ready, Dr. Tucker will inspect them. You can try them on to assess their appearance. If you are both happy with the veneers, Dr. Tucker will bond them to your teeth.

The cost of your veneers will depend on the number of veneers you want and the quality you choose. Although we cannot give you a good estimate online, quality veneers will cost several thousand dollars each.

You will get a comprehensive estimate before you agree to your treatment plan. We offer options if you want to finance your veneers, including CareCredit.

Veneers are easy to care for. Just treat them like your natural teeth. Brush, floss, and make your regular dental appointments.

Don’t do anything with veneers that you shouldn’t do with natural teeth. This means chewing on objects other than food, such as fingernails, pens, ice, and similar damaging items. Don’t use your teeth as tools. They’re not scissors, nutcrackers, pliers, or bottle openers.

Wear a mouthguard when participating in sports, including recreation and non-contact sports. Dr. Tucker will let you know if you must wear a nightguard to protect your veneers from clenching and grinding at night.

Following Dr. Tucker’s instructions, your porcelain veneers should last at least ten years—many last 15 years or more. The Lumineers manufacturer promotes data that last more than 20 years, but we don’t have a lot of independent research to support claims that they last longer than traditional veneers.

If you want beautiful results with porcelain veneers, work with a highly trained and experienced cosmetic dentist at Tucker Dental Excellence.

Please call (814) 836-7777 to get perfect veneers at our dental office in Erie, PA.