As a highly trained cosmetic dentist, Dr. Justin Deckard works with patients to design treatment plans that address their specific needs and aesthetic goals. A natural-looking smile makeover requires great care and attention to detail.
Dr. Deckard has a unique understanding of aesthetic dentistry. This equips him with the skills to transform smiles into the most natural-looking and long-lasting results. DC Precision Dentistry offers porcelain veneers in Washington, DC. We also provide additional cosmetic dentistry treatments to our patients.
About Porcelain Veneers in Washington, DC
Dr. Deckard can use porcelain veneers to address one or more teeth. Porcelain teeth veneers are a high-quality, natural-looking solution that will restore the appearance of damaged teeth or complete a full smile makeover.
A porcelain veneer is an ultra-thin ceramic shell that your dentist will bond to the front and sides of your teeth to create a beautiful, bright smile. Dentists consider this the most versatile cosmetic treatment because they can treat various dental concerns. Some of these concerns include:
- Worn or chipped teeth
- Uneven teeth
- Gaps between the teeth
- Crooked or misaligned teeth
- Stained or discolored teeth
- Change the shape or size of a tooth
The Porcelain Veneer Process
Each treatment begins with a consultation with Dr. Deckard. He will complete an exam and discuss goals, budget, and expectations. Dr. Deckard may use CEREC technology to design and fabricate porcelain veneers.
Dr. Deckard will prepare the teeth by removing a small amount of enamel from their surface. Then, using CAD-CAM technology, 3-D images of the teeth will be taken. Dr. Deckard will use the images to create customized veneers that appear and function like natural teeth.
Once the teeth veneers look good, we will transfer the design to a milling unit in our office. This allows us to make your restorations on the spot and make adjustments when necessary. Dr. Deckard checks the quality and fit to ensure an optimal result. Once he and you are happy with how they look, Dr. Deckard carefully bonds the veneers to the front surface of the teeth. The veneers are polished to reveal a beautiful, natural-looking finish.
The final result is a beautiful, comfortable new smile that will enhance aesthetics and dental health. Because they are resistant to staining, they will maintain their bright shade more easily and longer than your natural enamel.
To care for porcelain veneers, patients must maintain an oral hygiene routine and schedule regular dental visits to our Washington, DC dentist office. Porcelain veneers can be a beautiful addition to your smile. It is crucial that patients follow their aftercare instructions to ensure their veneers remain in prime condition for up to 20 years.
Other Treatment Options
In most cases, we consider dental veneers permanent restorations. However, for younger patients or patients who do not want to commit to porcelain veneers, Dr. Deckard may recommend dental bonding. Dental bonding is a cost-effective, economical solution for addressing damaged teeth and minor cosmetic concerns. Although bonding is not permanent, it is a great temporary solution.
Porcelain Veneers FAQs
Do cavities develop under porcelain veneers?
Your new dental veneers will function just like your natural teeth, meaning the effects of oral hygiene still apply. So, if you maintain your regular habit of brushing and flossing your teeth and visit your dentist regularly for teeth cleanings, you should have a low chance of developing cavities or tooth decay.
Will my porcelain veneers look whiter than the surrounding teeth?
Your dentist will individually match the color of your veneers to the rest of your teeth. You may choose to have a teeth whitening treatment before getting your porcelain veneers. This will result in a whiter smile overall.
Can my porcelain veneers become stained?
Porcelain veneers have incredible stain-resistant properties. In fact, scientists discovered several old shipwrecks containing porcelain materials that are still as white as ever. It is highly unlikely that your porcelain veneers could stain.
Do porcelain veneers look natural?
Yes. Porcelain veneers can look very natural. The porcelain material in veneers closely mimics the appearance of natural tooth enamel, so they will be a good color match to blend in with your surrounding teeth. However, in some cases, it may be more obvious that a person has veneers, especially if they do not match well with the person’s natural teeth. You should communicate well with your dentist about your expectations and preferences.
How long do porcelain veneers last?
Porcelain veneers can last 10 to 15 years. However, if you practice good dental hygiene, they can last up to 20 years. Brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, rinsing with mouthwash, and visiting the dentist every six months for cleanings will ensure the longevity of your veneers.
How painful is getting porcelain veneers?
Many patients report that getting porcelain veneers is a relatively pain-free experience. In fact, your dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area before starting the procedure, so you should not feel any pain during the procedure. After the procedure, however, you may experience some sensitivity or mild discomfort in the area the dentist worked on.
Everyone’s pain tolerance is different. Some patients may experience more or less discomfort than others. You can manage any discomfort you experience with over-the-counter pain medication. Discuss any concerns you may have with your dentist before the procedure.
Schedule a Consultation for Porcelain Veneers in Washington, DC
To learn more about porcelain veneers, visit our Washington, DC dental office. Dr. Deckard is a highly trained dentist committed to helping patients achieve their dream smile. To schedule an appointment, (202) 851-7554 or request an appointment online.