Transforming Smiles in Bethesda
with Porcelain Veneers
As you go about your day-to-day life, take a look at all of the beautiful smiles around you. Do you think they were all designed by nature? Chances are, many of them are the result of cosmetic dentistry, and more specifically, porcelain veneers. Bethesda cosmetic dentist Dr. Hornstein has mastered both the art and the science of creating porcelain veneers that are attractive and completely natural looking, and he can help you achieve your dream smile with veneers in just two office visits.
Correct a Wide Range of Cosmetic Dental Issues
Veneers are the gold standard of cosmetic dentistry because they are so versatile. Consisting of thin porcelain shells that are bonded to front tooth surfaces, veneers can cover and correct many cosmetic issues at once. These restorations can correct the same problems as cosmetic bonding, including chips, gaps, and stains, as well as teeth that are misshapen, crooked, or slightly overlapping. Veneers can also lengthen teeth that have been worn down by aging or bruxism, helping to restore optimal occlusion.
Veneer Placement
The first step in porcelain veneer placement is creating room for them on the front tooth surfaces. Dr. Hornstein will remove about one-half millimeter of enamel, after which he will take an impression of your teeth so that a veneer for each tooth can be handcrafted in a dental lab. Because construction of your veneers takes time, he will place temporary veneers on your teeth to protect you from tooth sensitivity and allow you to eat and function normally while you wait. When your custom restorations have returned from the laboratory, you will come back to our Bethesda dentist office so that Dr. Hornstein can place your permanent veneers. After checking to make sure that your veneers are the correct size, shape, and color, and making adjustments as necessary, he will permanently bond them to your teeth.
A Durable, Lasting Investment in Your Smile
Veneers have many advantages over other cosmetic procedures. While costlier than cosmetic bonding, they are more durable and stain resistant, and they have a luminescence that mimics the sheen of natural teeth. They also require less tooth reduction than porcelain crowns, so more of your natural tooth structure is maintained, ensuring stronger, healthier teeth.
Tips for Maintaining Your Veneers
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing twice daily and flossing daily
- Avoid biting into very hard foods to prevent chipping
- Use a nightguard if you grind your teeth
- Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings
- Avoid excessive consumption of staining substances like coffee and tobacco
What to Expect During Your Veneer Treatment in Our Bethesda Office
- Initial consultation to assess your smile goals and oral health
- Preparation of your teeth with minimal enamel removal
- Placement of temporary veneers while custom veneers are crafted
- Final fitting and bonding of your permanent porcelain veneers
- Follow-up to ensure comfort, fit, and aesthetics
Experience the Difference
Dentistry of Bethesda provides compassionate, personalized dental care for all members of your family, including those with special needs. Contact Bethesda dentist Dr. Spencer Hornstein today at (301) 530-2700 to schedule your consultation. We happily treat patients from Silver Spring, North Bethesda, Rockville, Chevy Chase, Potomac, and the surrounding areas.
Frequently Asked Questions About Porcelain Veneers
1. What cosmetic issues can porcelain veneers correct?
Porcelain veneers can cover chips, gaps, stains, misshapen, crooked, or slightly overlapping teeth, and even lengthen worn teeth.
2. How long does the veneer placement process take?
Typically, veneers are placed over two visits: one for tooth preparation and impressions, and the second for final placement of the custom veneers.
3. How durable are porcelain veneers compared to other cosmetic treatments?
Porcelain veneers are highly durable, stain-resistant, and maintain a natural sheen, often lasting longer than cosmetic bonding.