If you are self-conscious about your smile because of chips, gaps, or stains, porcelain veneers can help you feel confident again. Veneers are thin shells that cover and change the look of your teeth.
At Tarheel Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. David Lee combines compassionate care with expert cosmetic dentistry to create natural-looking results. He takes the time to understand your goals, answer your questions, and provide gentle, personalized treatment. If you’re unhappy with one or more of your teeth, Dr. Lee may recommend veneers to create a balanced smile.
We are proud to serve patients from Chapel Hill, Durham, and the surrounding communities.
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made shells that cover the front of your teeth. They are made from high-quality material that reflects light like your natural teeth.
Our office works with labs to customize veneers that blend in with your smile for a beautiful result.
Dr. Lee places porcelain veneers to address a range of concerns:
- Tooth damage
- Discolored teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Misshapen teeth
We can bond one or more veneers to teeth in your smile line. These teeth are the teeth that show when you smile.
Benefits of Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers offer many advantages for patients looking to enhance their smile.
- Natural Appearance: Veneers are made from high-quality ceramic that reflects light like natural tooth enamel.
- Stain Resistant: Porcelain veneers resist stains from coffee, tea, and wine.
- Durable: With proper care, veneers can last 10 to 15 years.
- Versatile: Veneers can correct chips, cracks, gaps, stains, and misshapen teeth.
- Minimally Invasive: The procedure requires only a small amount of tooth preparation.
What to Expect During the Veneer Process in Chapel Hill
Consultation
Your veneer journey begins with a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Lee. He will take time to listen to your goals and understand what you want your smile to look like.
Then he will examine your teeth and gums to make sure you are a good candidate for veneers. Dr. Lee will also answer any questions you have about the process, timeline, and cost.
Treatment Planning
Once you decide to move forward, Dr. Lee will create a personalized treatment plan just for you. He will take digital images of your teeth to show you a preview of your new smile. This helps you see what your results will look like before treatment even begins. He will also review the timeline and discuss your options for sedation if you feel nervous about the procedure.
Tooth Preparation
At your next visit, Dr. Lee will gently prepare your teeth for the veneers. He will remove a small amount of enamel from the front of each tooth that will receive a veneer.
This step is necessary to make room for the veneers so they fit comfortably and look natural. You will be given local anesthesia to keep you comfortable during this part of the process. Dr. Lee is known for his gentle touch and will make sure you feel at ease.
Digital Impressions
After your teeth are prepared, we will take precise digital impressions of your mouth. Our office uses digital impressions instead of messy, goopy putty. A small, comfortable camera takes detailed pictures of your teeth and gums. These images are sent to a dental lab where your custom veneers will be handcrafted to fit your smile perfectly.
Temporary Veneers
While your permanent veneers are being made, Dr. Lee may place temporary veneers on your teeth. These temporary restorations will protect your teeth and give you an idea of what your new smile will look like. They are made of a tooth-colored material and will stay in place for about two to three weeks. You can eat, speak, and smile normally with your temporary veneers.
Final Placement
Once your permanent veneers are ready, you will return to our office for your final appointment. Dr. Lee will remove your temporary veneers and clean your teeth. He will carefully place your custom veneers to check the fit, color, and shape. He will make small adjustments to ensure they feel natural and comfortable. Then he will bond them securely in place. You will leave our office with a beautiful, confident smile.
Porcelain Veneers FAQs
Read answers to common patient questions about veneers in Chapel Hill, NC.
How long do porcelain veneers last?
With proper care, porcelain veneers can last 10 to 15 years. Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits will help them last as long as possible.
Are porcelain veneers permanent?
Porcelain veneers are considered a permanent treatment. A small amount of enamel is removed from your teeth to accommodate them. This step is not reversible. While the veneer can be replaced if it becomes damaged, the tooth will always need a veneer or crown.
Do porcelain veneers hurt?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you will not feel pain during the preparation and placement. Some patients may experience mild sensitivity after the anesthesia wears off. This is normal and temporary.
How do I care for my veneers?
You care for veneers just like your natural teeth. Brush twice a day, floss daily, and visit Dr. Lee for regular checkups. Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or pens. If you grind your teeth, Dr. Lee may recommend a night guard.
Am I a good candidate for porcelain veneers?
Most adults with healthy teeth and gums are good candidates. Dr. Lee will evaluate your oral health and discuss your goals during your consultation.
Making Your Veneers Affordable
We understand that the cost of veneers is a significant consideration. During your consultation, we will provide a clear, detailed estimate so there are no surprises. We offer flexible payment options and can help you understand your insurance benefits.
Ready to Transform Your Smile? Schedule Your Veneer Consultation with Dr. Lee Today.
If you are ready to achieve the smile you have always wanted, we are here to help. Dr. Lee will listen to your goals, evaluate your smile, and create a personalized plan just for you.
Call us today at (919) 551-8847, or use our online appointment request form. Our team is here to help schedule your appointment and answer any questions you may have.
