If you are experiencing a dental emergency, please call our emergency hotline at (732) 575-9440 and speak to Teri, to book your appointment as soon as possible!

How Long Does It Take to Get Porcelain Veneers?

Are you thinking about getting porcelain veneers? These thin, custom-made shells can hide dental issues like discoloration and misalignment. But how long does it take to get them? Our Point Pleasant dentist walks you through the timeline here. 

How Long Does It Take to Get Porcelain Veneers?

Getting veneers usually takes about 3-4 weeks and involves three appointments. While this timeline may vary, most patients complete the process in roughly a month. 

What Does the Process Look Like?

  1. Consultation and Planning

The first step is a consultation with your dentist. During this visit, they’ll check your teeth, gums, and oral health to make sure porcelain veneers are a good fit for you. They might also take digital impressions, X-rays, and photos of your teeth to help design your custom veneers. 

This consultation is important because it lets you and your dentist discuss your goals and adjust the plan if needed. Your dentist will also explain the veneer procedure, expected results, and possible side effects. 

  1. Tooth Preparation

If you decide to move forward with veneers, the next step is tooth preparation. Your dentist will remove a small amount of enamel from the front of your teeth to ensure the veneers fit well. Then, they’ll take impressions of your teeth and send them to a lab to create your custom set. 

Meanwhile, you’ll get temporary veneers to protect your teeth until the permanent ones are ready. 

  1. Veneer Placement 

The final step is the placement appointment. Your dentist will bond the custom veneers to your teeth with a special adhesive and harden the bond with a curing light. They’ll also make minor adjustments to ensure they’re comfortable and natural-looking. 

Each tooth typically takes about 30 minutes, and the whole appointment may last an hour or more, depending on how many veneers you get. 

What Should Veneer Aftercare Look Like?

After you get veneers, you’ll want to follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions, including: 

  • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle toothbrush
  • Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods
  • See your dentist twice a year for dental checkups and cleanings

You might experience some sensitivity or discomfort for a few days, which can managed with over-the-counter pain medication.  

Porcelain Veneer FAQs

  • Why Do I Need Temporary Dental Veneers?
    Temporary veneers protect your prepared teeth while your custom veneers are being made. They also give you a preview of your new smile, helping you and your dentist make any needed adjustments before placing the final veneers.
  • How Long Do Veneers Last? 
    Porcelain veneers tend to last 15 to 20 years with proper care. Good oral hygiene, a healthy diet, and avoiding teeth grinding or clenching can help them last longer.
  • Are Veneers Painful?
    In general, getting veneers isn’t considered painful. Although preparing your teeth may cause some minor discomfort, your dentist will use local anesthesia or other pain relief techniques to keep you comfortable.

Porcelain Veneers in Point Pleasant, NJ

Ready to transform your smile with porcelain veneers? The team at Coastal Dental Group in Point Pleasant, NJ, can help! Our experienced dentist, Dr. Zicchino, will create a customized plan to ensure your veneers look and feel natural. 

Call 732-714-1030 or contact us today to schedule a consultation. 

About the Author

Dr. Joseph Zicchino provides a wide array of cosmetic dentistry services, including Invisalign® Clear Aligners, at his practice in Point Pleasant, NJ. He earned his dental degree from NYU Dental School and established Coastal Dental Group in 2004. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (732) 714-1030!