Have you ever wondered how movie stars enjoy seemingly perfect teeth? Porcelain veneers are thin layers of porcelain that adhere to the front surface of the tooth. They can hide many imperfections to give you the smile you always desired. Your Mansfield dentists, Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris, provide this amazing cosmetic dental service in their comfortable, friendly office. The dentists now answer some common questions about porcelain veneers.

Q: What can porcelain veneers fix?

A: Porcelain veneers improve several types of conditions. Veneers can lengthen or shorten a tooth as well as modify its size or shape. Porcelain veneers can mask tooth stains or smoothen surface grooves and ridges. Veneers can also repair minor misalignment issues or large spaces between teeth.

Q: What is the process for obtaining porcelain veneers?

A: You will first come into Mansfield Dental where Dr. Jones or Dr. Harris will take impressions of your top and bottom teeth. This will be sent to a dental lab where a master ceramicist will construct veneers made of thin layers of porcelain. During this time, your dentists may give you a temporary veneer to sample it. When you return to our office, Dr. Jones or Dr. Harris may prepare your tooth by removing a small portion of your enamel, the top layer of your tooth. This will create space to attach the veneer. This may not be necessary for patients with only minor tooth flaws. Your dentists will then place the veneer onto your tooth.

Q: How long do porcelain veneers last?

A: Veneers last around ten years if you practice regular home care techniques of brushing and flossing. It is vital to pay attention to the health of your gum line because if your gums recede, the veneer may no longer reach to the edge of your gum line. Gum recession can occur after overly forceful brushing, not brushing well enough, or even teeth grinding. Dr Jones and Dr. Harris will help you determine the cause of gum recession.

Q: How do I care for my veneers?

A: Simply continue strong dental hygiene habits of daily flossing and twice-daily brushing. Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris recommend that patients obtain dental check ups and cleanings every six months to prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Also, veneers are resistant to stains, but your dentist may advise that you limit staining foods and drinks such as coffee, soda, and red wine.

About Your Mansfield Dentists

Mansfield Dental Associates offers a variety of services including teeth whitening, fillings, sealants, dentures, and dental implants. If you would like to schedule a consultation, call (817) 473-6227. Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris welcome and treat patients from Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, Midlothian and neighboring areas.