Porcelain Veneers Frequently Asked Questions
- How much do porcelain veneers cost?
- Why is porcelain such a popular material for dentistry?
- How does a porcelain inlay work?
- When would laminate veneers of porcelain be used?
- Can crowns be made of porcelain?
- In what situations would you add metal to the porcelain for strength?
- When back teeth are broken down, how is porcelain used?
- How long have you been in business?
- Where are you located?
- Are you a member of any dental associations?
1. How much do porcelain veneers cost?
If you are shopping around for a cosmetic dentist, you will probably hear wildly varying prices for dental veneers, ranging from as low as $600 to as high as $3000 per tooth. There are a few factors that will help you understand this wide range and also assist in selecting a competent professional.
The first thing to know is that veneers are not all the same. There are many different labs that make the veneers using different types of materials and processes. In fact, when your dentist takes impressions of your teeth and send them to a lab with instructions on what to do with your veneers, he usually has many, many options to select from in choosing the material that is right for you. As it goes with many things in life, you usually get what you pay for, and paying for a cheaper veneer may mean that it will not last as long or be as perfectly shaped and fitted to your smile.
Another factor to consider is the skill of the person placing the veneer. Dr. Maddahi has placed thousands of veneers and created custom smiles for celebrities, models, businessmen and athletes. Whether you need a single veneer or are looking to replace most of your teeth, he has the experience help you get the smile you are looking for without cutting any corners.
The best way to get an exact price is to call us for a free consultation where Dr. Maddahi can explain your options and help you make the decision that is right for you.
2. Why is porcelain such a popular material for dentistry?
Porcelain is very favorable for improving the look of your smile. Porcelain, also called ceramic, is a good choice for fillings and other dental procedures because the material can be made to look just like the real tooth. Also, many other dental materials aren't as durable as porcelain.
3. How does a porcelain inlay work?
Porcelain inlays are known for being quite strong, and Dr. Maddahi uses a fabrication procedure which creates a high level of perfection when situating the inlay. Porcelain inlays attach to the teeth to make them stronger; it can also be used with cracked rear teeth. These inlays are created with a hard and resistant industrial ceramic. It is then fastened in place with a unique sealant, so it will keep the cracked pieces of tooth together.
4. When would laminate veneers of porcelain be used?
When the teeth require too much change for basic bonding, porcelain veneers are a popular alternative to orthodontics. Because they take such a short amount of time and cause very little pain, porcelain veneers can be a great choice to revitalize your smile. Whether you need to handle discoloring, gaps, twisted teeth or disproportionately sized teeth, porcelain veneers are a great solution.
5. Can crowns be made of porcelain?
Crowns are often made of porcelain for many reasons. Porcelain is distinguished by its ability to look natural and be matched to the rest of the teeth. It is also known for its strength. When a tooth requires durability, such as with chewing teeth, porcelain jackets are used.
6. In what situations would you add metal to the porcelain for strength?
Occasionally, circumstances cause the pressure of a bite to be too much for porcelain alone, as in a case of periodontal disease or where teeth are completely missing. In these instances, a metal compound is positioned beneath the porcelain to add strength. First, an impression is made from which the metal layer is fashioned; then this layer is topped with porcelain.
7. When back teeth are broken down, how is porcelain used?
If there is still some healthy tooth structure, Dr. Maddahi will make an inlay of gold, and porcelain will be bonded to the gold inlay. This is the most durable method of reconstructing back teeth because porcelain coheres better to gold than to any other metal. Another benefit to gold is it is hypoallergenic. Also, the gold acts as barrier because it is placed between the porcelain and the nerves.
8. How long have you been in business?
Kourosh Maddahi, DDS has served over 4000 patients since opening his practice in 1989.
9. Where are you located?
436 North Roxbury Drive
Suite 202, Beverly Hills
California 90210.
10. Are you a member of any dental associations?
Yes. Dr. Kourosh Maddahi is a member of the following associations:
American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, American Academy of Implant Dentistry, Academy of Osseointegration, American Dental Association, California Dental Association, Los Angeles Dental Society, Academy of General Dentistry, International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology.
