Veneers

Veneers provide an effective treatment to improve the color and symmetry of your smile. At Plaza Dental Group in West Des Moines, Iowa, the dental team regularly transforms smiles with porcelain veneers. Porcelain veneers last 12 years on average* and can help you achieve the smile of your dreams. To request a porcelain veneer consultation, call the office or use the online booking feature today.

What are veneers?

Veneers are thin shells of porcelain that your Plaza Dental Group dentist bonds to the fronts of your permanent teeth. They provide an affordable way to cover up minor cosmetic imperfections like chips, gaps, and tooth discoloration.

Some people get only one veneer, but the team typically recommends getting six or eight. An even number allows for a more balanced-looking smile.

What types of cosmetic problems can veneers correct?

At Plaza Dental Group, the team uses porcelain veneers to correct various cosmetic problems, including:

• Broken or chipped teeth
• Severe discoloration
• Gaps between the teeth
• Smaller-than-average teeth

You might also benefit from porcelain veneers if you have pointy or unusually shaped teeth.

What does getting veneers involve?

At Plaza Dental Group, getting veneers takes two visits spaced several weeks apart.

During the first appointment, your dentist reviews your dental records, completes an oral exam, and takes a series of digital oral X-rays. If your teeth and gums are healthy, they proceed with cosmetic treatment.

Your dentist numbs your mouth with a local anesthetic and prepares your teeth to receive the veneers. They use special tools to remove a thin layer of enamel from each tooth (about a millimeter thick). 

After preparing your teeth for the veneers, your dentist takes a series of digital impressions. Then, they send the impressions to a dental lab that designs and creates a set of porcelain veneers.

When your custom veneers are ready (a week or two later), you return to Plaza Dental Group. Your dentist lines the veneers up with your teeth, bonds them in place, and removes any excess porcelain. 

How long do porcelain veneers last?

Porcelain veneers last 12-15 years* on average, but you can extend their use by practicing good oral hygiene. The team at Plaza Dental Group recommends brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing regularly, and visiting the office every six months for preventive teeth cleaning. 

It’s also important to protect your teeth. The team recommends not biting your nails, never opening packaging with your teeth, and wearing a mouthguard if you play contact sports. 

If you’re interested in getting porcelain veneers to enhance your smile, call Plaza Dental Group or use the online booking feature today. 

*Individual results may vary