Dr. Louis Russell, Jr offers natural-looking porcelain veneers at his office in Tomball, TX, to conceal chips, cracks, intrinsic staining, and other imperfections. These thin pieces of porcelain cover the front surfaces of teeth to give your smile attractive symmetry. The dental porcelain Dr. Russel uses is a highly durable material that provides long-lasting results. If minor flaws in your smile are causing you to feel self-conscious, Dr. Russell can help you experience an enhanced appearance and an exhilarating boost in confidence.
Porcelain Veneers versus Dental Bonding
Although both procedures can address many of the same flaws, there are a few key differences between porcelain veneers and dental bonding. One primary difference is the material used in each procedure. Porcelain veneers are made with a medical-grade ceramic for strength and durability. Dental bonding uses composite resin, and although this material is also strong, it is less durable than porcelain.
If minor flaws in your smile are causing you to feel self-conscious, Dr. Russell can help you experience an enhanced appearance and an exhilarating boost in confidence.
The second major difference is how the procedures are performed. Although Dr. Russell does offer minimally invasive veneer options for some patients, in some cases he must remove a portion of the tooth enamel to accommodate the veneer. Dental bonding does not require any alteration of the tooth enamel.
Because porcelain is strong and resistant to stains, you can expect them to last many years with proper care. Dental bonding does not last as long as veneers.
Veneers can be a brilliant solution if you feel self-conscious about small imperfections in your smile.
Are Porcelain Veneers Right for You?
You may be a candidate for veneers is you feel self-conscious about:
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Misshapen teeth
- Gapped or crooked teeth
- Stains that professional teeth whitening cannot lift
Porcelain veneers are generally not recommended for patients with sensitive teeth caused by enamel erosion. Candidates are in good oral health, with no tooth decay or gum disease. If these issues are present, they must be corrected before proceeding with any cosmetic dentistry procedure.
The Veneers Process
Depending on your needs, Dr. Russell can determine if a minimally invasive approach is appropriate for you. In short, if the veneers would look bulky without preliminary treatment, you may be better suited to traditional veneers. Either approach involves two visits. During the first visit, Dr. Russell will make any necessary alterations to your teeth before taking impressions. These impressions are sent to a lab for the fabrication of your veneers.
Dr. Russell uses e.max® porcelain veneers for the minimally invasive approach. They are thinner than traditional porcelain veneers, but just as durable.
It typically takes about two weeks to receive your custom veneers back from the lab. When you return for your second visit, Dr. Russell will check their fit and ensure they meet your satisfaction. Next, he will apply a dental cement to the back of the veneers and then firmly press them onto the front of your teeth. He will make any necessary alterations to ensure a comfortable bite. Finally, you can leave our office with a beautiful new smile.
Learn More about Porcelain Veneers
If you would like to learn more about how you can benefit from porcelain veneers, contact Russell Family Dentistry online or call (281) 351-5458 to schedule a consultation. Dr. Russell will conduct a detailed review of your goals and oral health to determine if porcelain veneers are right for you.
