Dental Veneers – Raleigh NC Guide for Consumers

Not long ago, we posted information about porcelain veneers. Raleigh residents are showing an increased interest in veneers and other forms of cosmetic dentistry. From a consumer standpoint, it’s helpful to know not only what the concepts are, but what questions you should ask if you’re considering getting porcelain veneers in Raleigh. Here are five important questions you might want to ask your prospective Raleigh NC provider. They can help set expectations and potentially help you compare why you’re being told different things by different dentists you discuss your needs with.

1. Do you think that dental veneers are the best approach to getting the smile I’m looking for?  What are my options?
   Be prepared to discuss your goals. Tooth whitening and orthodontic devices may factor into the discussion, either in conjunction with or as alternatives to veneers. Different dentists may have different viewpoints on what is the best plan for you.  Veneers may or may not be a realistic approach to your needs. You tooth color itself can be a factor in determining the best approach for your situation. You may also need to assess the dentist’s experience level with veneers – Raleigh dentists’ experience with cosmetic dentistry procedures can vary widely and factor into their recommendations.
2. What type of veneers do you think are best for my situation and why?
   In the broadest terms, there are composite veneers and porcelain veneers to consider. The location, size, and extent of the “issues” you want to address, as well as your budget, are all factors in answering that question.
3. What type of preparation is required for veneers, and when will the process be complete?
   The type of veneers being used as well as your specific situation will be factors in determining the answer to this. Remember, speed does not always produce superior results.
4. How will I need to take care of my veneers, and how long will they last?
   Porcelain veneers are quite durable, but a reasonable amount of care must be taken with them, as with your natural teeth. Your dentist can discuss this in more detail. If you choose a cosmetic dentist for veneers in Raleigh who will also provide your regular dental checkups, the dentist has a vested interest in your ongoing happiness. He or she can also monitor and counsel you as part of those routine visits and answer any ongoing questions that you might have about your veneers.
5. How much experience do you have with veneers and with situations like mine?
   In some ways, it is helpful to think of your cosmetic dentistry provider as an interior designer for your mouth.  Experience matters, especially since there are no simple “do-overs” for your smile when it comes to porcelain veneers. You’ll need to decide whether you want a beautiful smile that still looks natural, or if you’re looking for something a bit “over the top” in terms of your smile makeover. Not every dentist will agree with the latter approach.

   If you have photos (from magazines or online sources) that help to illustrate what you want, it may useful to bring those with you. They can be a good basis for discussing your wants and how what the dentist recommends will compare to those. Always ask about how much experience the dentist has with using veneers in similar situations to yours.  Dentists with experience are more likely to know what is or is not reasonable to achieve and still provide a highly functional end result. Looks aren’t the only thing that matters!