Veneers – Tulsa, OK

Are veneers permanent?

Veneers aren’t technically permanent because they do need to be replaced. However, they are irreversible. To make sure your veneers fit properly, a small amount of protective enamel needs to be removed, and this does not grow back. Because of this, teeth that are prepared this way will always need to be covered with either crowns or veneers.

Is there anything I can’t eat with veneers?

When you wear temporary veneers before the permanent ones are complete, you will need to avoid harder foods like ice, raw fruits and veggies, and hard candies. It is also a good idea to avoid sticky foods that can adhere to the temporary veneers. Once you have your permanent veneers placed, you can enjoy almost anything, but it is still a good idea to practice some caution with harder foods. If your teeth are sensitive after veneer placement, stay away from anything that is particularly hot or cold.

How are veneers different than crowns?

Veneers are thin shells that are only about 1 millimeter in thickness, while crowns are shaped like the entire tooth above the gumline and are about 2 millimeters in thickness. Instead of being placed over the whole tooth, veneers only cover up the front surface that you see when you talk or smile. Generally, veneers are used as a cosmetic solution or for minor shape corrections as opposed to protecting the tooth from further damage like a crown would.

Do veneers feel like real teeth?

Many patients report that when veneers are placed properly, they feel completely natural in their mouths. They don’t even notice them when they are speaking or chewing their food. This is because veneers are carefully crafted to fit perfectly on the teeth after a small portion of enamel has been removed. The enamel removal prevents the restoration from appearing bulky and feeling uncomfortable. Porcelain is very smooth and doesn’t irritate the soft tissues inside the mouth.

How many veneers will I need?

Ultimately, the goal is for all of your visible teeth to match, so you will receive the appropriate number of veneers to do this. Some people get a single veneer to cover up a cracked, chipped, or broken tooth while others will get 6, 8, 10, or 12 to create a beautiful, symmetrical smile. It all depends on your unique smile goals.

Does it hurt to get veneers?

Plenty of people feel nervous about sitting in the dentist’s chair, even if it’s for an elective cosmetic procedure. It’s natural to wonder whether getting veneers might hurt, but Dr. Hammond understands you might be anxious and will do everything she can to help you feel calm and comfortable throughout your appointment.

For instance, our team will numb your mouth before preparing your teeth for veneers, and will do so again when your restorations are being cemented in place. We also offer multiple options for sedation, including nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral conscious medication prescribed as a pill, or IV sedation administered directly to your bloodstream.

That means you likely won’t have to contend with any side effects until the meds wear off. Then, you might feel sore or sensitive for a few days until your mouth adjusts to the presence and dimensions of your new restorations.

What happens to the teeth under veneers?

Are you curious what happens to the teeth supporting your veneers? These resilient ceramic shells are cemented over the fronts of your enamel to hide aesthetic imperfections, and are strong enough to resist chips, cracks, and discoloration. That means they can help shield your teeth from potential harm.

However, they only cover one surface of your enamel; the remaining sides of your teeth remain exposed and are therefore still vulnerable to common oral issues, like cavities, gum disease, or injuries. You can prevent this by continuing to brush and floss twice daily to remove harmful plaque and bacteria buildup.

Will veneers give me a lisp?

It can sometimes take a few weeks for your tongue and the other supporting muscles and tissues in your mouth to fully adjust to the presence of your restorations. Some patients develop temporary changes to their speaking patterns, such as a slight slur or lisp, during this time, especially when pronouncing “s”, “v”, or “th” sounds.

Thankfully, these concerns usually resolve themselves with enough time and patience. If you develop a persistent lisp that doesn’t subside, please contact our office. In some cases, we can thin your veneers slightly to help you overcome changes to your speech.

How long do veneers typically last?

These restorations are made from durable materials and coated with a glaze that resists chips, cracks, and stains. As a result, they often last for 20+ years when cared for correctly.

For instance, in one 2012 study of 318 veneers, researchers found that 95% lasted 5 years, 94% lasted 10 years, and 83% lasted 20 years. Most people can help extend their longevity with routine maintenance, which includes brushing and flossing twice daily, choosing foods carefully to avoid damaging or dislodging their restorations, and visiting our team every 6 months for a routine checkup and cleaning.