Porcelain Veneers

If you have chipped, too small, or discolored permanent teeth, porcelain veneers can transform your smile. At Ford Dental Group, general and cosmetic dentist Hussein Abdel-Hak, DDS, and the team regularly use porcelain veneers to address minor cosmetic imperfections. To make an appointment, call the nearest office in Dearborn, Michigan, or book online today.

What are porcelain veneers?

Porcelain veneers are paper-thin porcelain shells that Dr. Abdel-Hak bonds to the outsides of your permanent front teeth. After the bonding material dries, the veneers allow you to bite, chew, smile, and speak confidently.

If you chip or break a permanent tooth, you might only need one veneer. Even so, Dr. Abdel-Hak and the team typically recommend getting between six and eight porcelain veneers. That’s because an even number creates a more balanced and symmetrical smile.

What types of cosmetic problems can porcelain veneers address?

Dr. Abdel-Hak and the team use porcelain veneers to address a wide range of cosmetic problems, including:

• Broken teeth
• Chipped teeth
• Gaps between teeth
• Unusually shaped teeth
• Smaller-than-average teeth

You might also benefit from porcelain veneers if you have yellow or brown teeth that don’t improve with teeth whitening — and veneers are stain-resistant.

What is the process for getting porcelain veneers?

At Ford Dental Group, getting porcelain veneers takes two visits.

First porcelain veneers visit

Dr. Abdel-Hak reviews your dental records, performs an oral exam, and takes a series of oral X-rays. If you have crooked or uneven teeth or cavities, the team might recommend a prerequisite treatment first, like orthodontics with Invisalign® or a filling.

If your teeth and gums are healthy, Dr. Abdel-Hak administers a local anesthetic and prepares your teeth to receive the veneers. He uses special tools to remove a thin layer of enamel from each tooth, about one millimeter thick.

Next, Dr. Abdel-Hak takes impressions of your mouth. Then, he sends your impressions to a nearby dental lab. The lab manufactures a custom set of porcelain veneers.

Second porcelain veneers visit

When the dental lab finishes your porcelain veneers, you return to Ford Dental Group.

Dr. Abdel-Hak bonds the porcelain veneers to the outside of your permanent teeth, polishes them, and trims off any excess material. Before you leave, he explains how to keep your porcelain veneers in optimal condition.

How do I take care of my porcelain veneers?

Porcelain veneers last an average of 10 years, but you can extend their lifespan by practicing good oral hygiene and participating in preventive dentistry. Dr. Abdel-Hak and the team recommend:

• Brushing your teeth twice daily
• Flossing regularly
• Never using your teeth to open packaging
• Avoiding bad habits like nail-biting
• Wearing a mouthguard or a nightguard if you grind or clench your teeth

It’s also important to visit Ford Dental Group every six months for an oral exam and professional teeth cleaning.

Request your porcelain veneers consultation at Ford Dental Group by calling the nearest office or booking online today. 

*Individual results may vary.