If you’re unhappy with chipped, stained, gapped or misshapen teeth, dental veneers can give you the smile you’ve always wanted. Veneers are thin shells of porcelain that are custom-made to fit over the front surface of your teeth, instantly transforming their appearance. They’re one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry treatments because they can fix multiple issues at once. Discoloration, chips, gaps, uneven teeth and more, all with a natural-looking result that blends seamlessly with your smile.
At Davis Family Dentistry, we create custom dental veneers that are designed specifically for your smile. Each veneer is crafted from high-quality porcelain that mimics the natural translucency of tooth enamel, so your new smile looks and feels completely real. The process is straightforward, we’ll prep your teeth, take impressions and bond your custom veneers in place. Most patients need just two visits to get a complete smile makeover. Dental veneers are durable, stain-resistant and can last 10-15 years or more with proper care.
Getting dental veneers is a straightforward process that typically takes just two visits to our office. We’ll work closely with you to design your perfect smile and make sure you’re comfortable every step of the way. Here’s what the veneer process looks like:
During your first visit, we’ll discuss your goals and examine your teeth to determine if dental veneers are the right solution for you. We’ll talk about what you want to change, whether it’s color, shape, size or alignment and create a customized treatment plan. We can even show you a preview of what your new smile will look like so you know exactly what to expect.
To make room for your dental veneers, we need to remove a thin layer of enamel from the front of your teeth (usually less than a millimeter). This is done with local anesthesia so you won’t feel any discomfort. The amount of tooth preparation depends on the type of veneers you’re getting. Some minimal-prep veneers require very little removal while traditional porcelain might need a bit more.
Once your teeth are prepped, we’ll take detailed impressions or digital scans of your teeth. These are sent to a dental lab where skilled technicians will handcraft your custom dental veneers to perfectly match the size, shape and color we discussed during your consultation. This process usually takes 2-3 weeks.
While your permanent dental veneers are being made, we will place temporary veneers to protect your prepared teeth and keep your smile looking good. Temporary veneers aren’t as strong as the final ones, so you’ll need to be careful with hard or sticky foods during this time.
When your custom veneers are ready, you’ll come back for your final appointment. We’ll carefully check the fit, shape and color before permanently bonding them to your teeth with a special dental adhesive. Once they’re in place, we’ll make any minor adjustments needed to ensure your bite feels comfortable and your smile looks perfect. You’ll leave our office with a brand new smile!
After your dental veneers are place, you’ll care for them just like your natural teeth. Brush twice a day, floss daily and come in for regular dental checkups. Veneers are stain-resistant and durable, but avoiding things like chewing ice, opening packages (with your teeth), and grinding will help them last as long as possible.
Ready to transform your smile with dental veneers? Schedule your consultation today.
Starting care with a new dental practice should feel easy and welcoming. Here’s exactly what you can expect during your first appointment at Davis Family Dentistry.
Complete your patient forms and meet our friendly team who will make you feel right at home
Dr. Davis performs a thorough examination using advanced digital imaging technology
We discuss your oral health goals and create a personalized plan tailored to your needs
Get all your questions answered and schedule any recommended follow-up treatments
Experience personalized dental care in a comfortable, welcoming environment. Schedule your appointment with us today and discover why families throughout Indianapolis trust us with their smiles.
Get answers to the most common questions about dental care, treatment options, and what to expect before your appointment.
How much do dental veneers cost?
Dental veneers typically cost between $1000-$2500 per tooth depending on the material and complexity of your case. Porcelain veneers are usually more expensive than composite veneers but they last longer and look more natural. The total cost depends on how many teeth you’re treating. Some people get veneers on just their front two teeth while others do a full smile makeover with 6-10 veneers. We’ll give you a detailed cost breakdown during your consultation and discuss financing options that fit your budget.
How long do dental veneers last?
Porcelain dental veneers typically last 10-15 years or even longer with proper care. Composite veneers usually last 5-7 years before they need to be replaced. The lifespan of your veneers depends on how well you take care of them. Avoiding things like biting your nails, chewing ice or grinding your teeth will have them last as long as possible. Regular checkups also help us catch any issues early on.
Do dental veneers look natural?
Yes! High-quality porcelain dental veneers are designed to look incredibly natural. The porcelain mimics the translucency of real tooth enamel and we customize the color, shape and size to match your facial features and existing teeth. When done right, most people wont even be able to tell you have veneers, they’ll just think you have a great smile. We work closely with skilled lab technicians to create veneers that look like they belong in your mouth.
Does getting dental veneers hurt?
The tooth preparation process is done under local anesthesia so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. After the numbing wears off, you might have some sensitivity for a few days but it’s manageable with over-the-counter pain medication. Most patients say the process is much less uncomfortable then they expected. Once your permanent veneers are bonded in place, they shouldn’t cause any ongoing pain or sensitivity.
Can dental veneers fix crooked teeth?
Dental veneers can improve the appearance of mildly crooked or misaligned teeth. However, they don’t actually move your teeth like braces or clear aligners do. If you have significant misalignment or bite issues, it might be better to start with an Invisalign treatment first. During your consultation, we’ll evaluate your teeth and let you know if veneers can give you the results you’re looking for or if another treatment would work better.
Will dental veneers stain like my natural teeth?
Nope! One of the best things about porcelain dental veneers is that they’re highly resistant to staining. While your natural teeth can get discolored from coffee, tea, wine and tobacco, porcelain veneers maintain their color much better. That said, you should still practice good oral hygiene and avoid excessive exposure to things that may stain.
Can I get veneers if I have cavities or gum disease?
We need to address any cavities or gum disease before placing dental veneers. Veneers require healthy teeth and gums as a foundation if you have active decay or gum problems, so we’ll treat those issues first and then move forward with veneers once your oral health is back on track. This ensures your veneers will last as long as possible.
What's the difference between veneers and crowns?
Dental veneers cover only the front surface of your tooth and are used primarily for cosmetic improvements. Crowns cover the entire tooth and are used when a tooth is significantly damaged or weakened. Veneers require less tooth preparation than crowns, making them a more conservative option when you just want to improve your appearance. If your teeth are structurally sound but you don’t like how they look, veneers are usually the better choice.
Are dental veneers permanent?
Yes, dental veneer are considered a permanent treatment because we have to remove a thin layer of enamel to place them. Once enamel is removed, it doesn’t grow back, so you will always need some kind of restoration on those teeth. However, veneers themselves aren’t permanent, they’ll need to eventually be replaced after 10-15 years. Think of it as a long-term commitment.
Can I eat normally with dental veneers?
Yes, you can eat most foods normally with dental veneers. However, you should avoid biting directly into really hard foods like ice, hard candy or nuts with your front teeth. Also be careful with sticky foods that could potentially pull on your veneers. Cutting hard foods into smaller pieces and chewing with your back teeth will help your veneers last longer. Just like your regular teeth they’re very durable, but not indestructible.
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