Veneers – San Antonio, TX
Disguise Your Teeth’s Imperfections
Do you sometimes hold back from smiling because you feel self-conscious about the way your teeth look? Dr. Patel and our team would like to help with our cosmetic services. For example, you may be a candidate for veneers, which can disguise your teeth’s imperfections in just a few appointments. This transformative procedure has already helped countless people to find new confidence — it may be able to help you as well! Contact us today to book your consultation.
Why Choose HIC Dental-Implant & Family for Veneers?
- Treatment Customized to Your Preferences
- Beautiful & Long-Lasting results
- Highly Skilled & Detail-Oriented Dentist
What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are small, custom-made pieces of porcelain or another material that get permanently attached to the outward-facing surfaces of the teeth. Their purpose is to hide imperfections. For example, veneers are often used to cover:
- Discoloration
- Chips and cracks
- Small gaps between the teeth
- Misshapen or asymmetrical teeth
- And more!
Veneers are very strong, and they have the potential to last for decades. Plus, they feel comfortable in the mouth, so you will not have to make any major adjustments to the way you use your teeth.
The Process of Getting Veneers
The veneers treatment process starts with a consultation. Dr. Patel will examine your teeth and learn about what you wish to accomplish. If you have any inspiration photos for your new look, be sure to bring them. If it seems like veneers are a good fit for you, Dr. Patel will plan the details of your treatment.
Following your consultation, it may take at least two appointments to finish getting veneers. At the first appointment, our team will prepare your teeth by removing a sliver of enamel. This is important so the veneers will sit flush with your gumline and feel natural in your mouth. Then, we will take detailed impressions of your teeth.
While a laboratory fabricates your veneers, you will wear temporary ones. When your permanent veneers are ready, we will verify that they meet our high quality standards before we secure them onto your teeth.
The Benefits of Veneers
Dental veneers offer a number of remarkable benefits:
- Veneers often last for a decade or longer. Some patients have their first set for up to 30 years!
- Veneers are durable enough to withstand the rigors of normal eating and drinking. Feel free to enjoy all of your favorite foods!
- Resistance to stains. Porcelain veneers are nonporous and do not absorb pigment molecules easily. They can retain their original color for many years.
- Veneers can be used to cover one tooth or all the teeth that are visible when you smile. You can also give us notes so we can customize your look to your preferences.
Understanding the Cost of Veneers
When it comes to veneers and other cosmetic dental options, the amount that you pay will determine the quality of your results. Veneers are an excellent way to transform your smile, but they are quite an investment, so it’s important to evaluate all of your options to determine whether or not they are the best cosmetic solution for you. During your consultation with us, we can discuss the exact cost of your treatment. Until then, here are some things to take into consideration.
Cost VS Cosmetic Dentistry: What’s Right for Me?
There are several different cosmetic options available at our practice, and they are all at different price points. Here’s what you can expect from each one:
- Teeth Whitening – Whitening is a relatively fast and affordable treatment. It can make noticeable changes to the appearance of your teeth in a short period of time but only helps with tooth color.
- Cosmetic Bonding – This is the most affordable option and can usually be completed in a single appointment. However, it is only available for minor changes, like reshaping a damaged tooth. It generally needs to be replaced every 3-10 years.
- Veneers – Veneers may not be the cheapest cosmetic service, but they are the easiest way to completely transform every aspect of your smile all at once in a few short appointments. Your time is valuable!
How to Make Veneers Affordable
Veneers are rarely covered by dental insurance because they are considered to be an elective treatment. However, this doesn’t mean that you will be left completely on your own. We accept payments through CareCredit – a third-party financing company that can split the cost of your treatment into manageable monthly installments with little to no interest. If you need help with the application process or have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask us!
To find out exactly how much you can expect to pay for veneers, schedule a consultation with us. We are eager to help you achieve your dream smile!
Veneers FAQs
What Happens to the Teeth Under Veneers?
Veneers don’t harm your teeth because only a small amount of enamel is removed. The material used to bond the veneers to your teeth is also completely safe. Because the enamel is covered with the veneer, the procedure will not increase your risk of developing cavities. However, you still need to brush and floss regularly to prevent decay from occurring beneath the veneers.
Is There Anything I Can’t Eat with Veneers?
When you are wearing your temporary veneers, you will need to avoid foods that are hard, like ice, raw fruit and vegetables, and candies. You should also stay away from sticky foods. Once you have your permanent veneers placed, you should still be careful, but you can enjoy most foods again. If your teeth feel slightly sensitive after the placement procedure, you should avoid foods that are particularly hot and cold.
Can You Whiten Veneers?
Whitening treatments don’t have any effect on veneers, even if they have been stained. To change their color, you will need to have them replaced or shaded instead. However, the treatment will still affect the teeth around the veneers, so the tone of your smile can become uneven. If you are planning on having both whitening and veneers done, you should have your teeth whitened first. This way, the veneers can be color-matched to blend in with the rest of your smile.
Do Veneers Feel Like Real Teeth?
Many people report that properly placed veneers feel perfectly natural inside their mouths. They don’t even notice them when they are speaking or chewing their food. This is because veneers are crafted to fit perfectly on the teeth based on impressions that are taken after a small amount of enamel has been removed. Porcelain is also very smooth, so it will not irritate the soft tissues of your mouth.
Can Veneers Widen My Smile?
According to a study done by the University of Minnesota, “narrow smiles” are more likely to hide the teeth. Wider smiles are considered to be more attractive because asymmetrical teeth are more balanced. Veneers are an easy way to widen a narrow arch, making the teeth appear fuller.