Minimal & No-Prep Veneers in Plano, TX
A cosmetic Dentist in Plano, Dr. Mark Sowell, is proud to provide you with additional options for creating your ideal smile. We offer low and no-prep dental veneer products as a solution for a wide range of cosmetic concerns.
“Like anything in dentistry, minimal prep and no-prep veneers can be a great solution,” says Dr. Sowell, a Plano cosmetic dentist. “However, they are not the solution for every patient. The best way to find out if minimal-prep veneers are the solution for you is to come and evaluate your smile with me. Then we’ll know if they are the right option for you.”
No-prep means the dentist does not reshape the teeth to make room for the bonding or porcelain that he is going to add. In certain cases, this can have an acceptable esthetic result if the teeth are small, set back in the mouth, and spaced ideally. If these conditions are not present, the result can look like the person has bucked teeth. Dr. Sowell also offers porcelain veneers for patients that want a more customized and permanent solution to their issues.
Most patients who request no-prep veneer treatment in our Plano, TX dentist office are younger people who are afraid of damage from reshaping. For these patients, we often suggest direct or transitional tooth bonding.
A dentist can complete tooth bonding procedures with minimal or no preparation if your teeth are healthy to begin with. As long as the preparation stays on the enamel, the bond is stronger than the tooth itself. Bonding is actually an affordable and effective solution, but often overlooked in cosmetic dentistry.
It is one of the easiest and fastest methods to instantly rejuvenate your teeth and smile. With over 30 years of practice, Dr. Sowell has never seen someone’s tooth damaged from a bonding or dental porcelain veneer treatment.
The Minimal-prep Veneers Process
Minimal-prep and no-prep veneers are actually dental veneers custom-made in dental laboratories. In reality, any porcelain veneer material from any lab bonds to a tooth without preparation. The question is, “What will it look like?”. Very thin veneers have limitations as to how much they can lighten dark teeth, for example.
To begin the process, your dentist will carefully remove a small amount of the surface of the affected teeth. Then he will apply the minimal-prep veneers using a special bonding agent. Next, he will cure the bonding agent using a special UV light. This process generally requires fewer dental visits because preparation time is less than what traditional veneers require.
The Best Results for the Right Situation
In the right situations where the proper conditions exist, no-prep or minimal-prep veneers can give excellent results with great longevity. The key is to choose a highly skilled ceramist because the veneers are so thin that they are difficult to create and manage.
Our in-house ceramist is a master at creating these types of very thin, natural-looking porcelain veneers. Ultra-thin porcelain veneers can be a great solution for patients with inclining teeth or for those who need enamel build-up. Plano dentist Dr. Sowell may also recommend placement of Durathin veneers or Lumineers for patients who do not want to invest the time required for orthodontics.
No-Prep Porcelain Veneers Before & After: Dr. Sowell performed gum leveling as well as bondable empress porcelain veneers on the upper teeth to correct tooth discoloration and project a fuller smile.
No-Prep Veneer FAQs
Do no-prep veneers ruin your teeth?
No-prep veneers do not generally ruin your teeth. They repair damaged teeth and do not cause any damage to your existing teeth. They can also hide cosmetic tooth issues and cover up aesthetic flaws.
How long will my minimal or no-prep veneers last?
With diligent daily dental hygiene and regular bi-yearly dental visits, Lumineers can last over 20 years. Our dentist makes sure that he uses the most reliable tools and best materials to provide you with lasting results.
Are no-prep veneers cheaper than porcelain veneers?
No-prep veneers are typically less expensive than porcelain veneers, but this cost will vary depending on how many you are getting and other factors. Traditionally tooth bonding with veneers is a cost-effective option versus choosing porcelain restorations. This is because porcelain veneers require more steps and preparation of your existing teeth.
Can veneers stain?
No, veneers do not stain in most cases. They consist of a stain-resistant material. In some cases of excessive smoking, stains can occur. However, it is important to note that excessive smoking can potentially cause stains on veneers. The chemicals present in tobacco smoke can gradually discolor the surface of the veneers.This can lead to a yellowish or brownish appearance. To prevent staining on your veneers, we advise to avoid habits like smoking and consuming dark-colored beverages such as coffee, tea, or red wine in excess.
Maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly can also help minimize the risk of staining. If you notice any stains on your veneers despite taking preventive measures, consult with our dentist. We will be able to assess the situation and provide appropriate guidance on how to address the issue.
Can veneers replace missing teeth?
No. Dental veneers hide the appearance of cosmetic imperfections but do not replace an entire tooth structure. Dental implants would be your best choice to replace missing teeth.
Do no-prep veneers require any drilling or anesthesia?
The no-prep veneers procedure does not require any drilling or anesthesia. We design them to fit onto existing teeth without removing any enamel. They are a very safe option.