Cosmetic Dentistry Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Below we have gathered a few of the more common questions/concerns from our patients. As always, you are welcome to give us a call with any of your specific questions or concerns.
How long will veneers/crowns last?
You may know someone with a crown that is more than 20 or 30 years old. The same applies for cosmetic veneers and crowns. When teeth are restored properly and you maintain healthy gums and general health, they can last a life-time.
Do you guarantee the teeth?
After we beautify your smile we will make a night-guard (occlusal guard) for you to wear while you sleep. This will protect your new smile from grinding side-to-side and front-to-back; the major cause of damage to dental restorations. With nightly usage of your night-guard we will repair or replace restorations damaged under normal usage (no chewing ice!) for five years.
What are they made of?
Empress is known as the “gold standard” for cosmetic restorations for both dental professionals and patients. More than 33 million restorations having been fabricated with the material to date. Empress crowns/veneers are known for both their esthetic beauty (natural looking) and longevity; the perfect combination!
Will they change color?
No. Though your natural teeth will change in color, your new smile will not change in color if it is properly cared for (regular cleanings and exams and keeping up with your daily oral hygiene)
Why do I need a Night Guard/Occlusal Guard?
After we beautify your smile we will make a night-guard (occlusal guard) for you to wear while you sleep. This will protect your new smile from grinding side-to-side and front-to-back; the major cause of damage to dental restorations. With nightly usage of your night-guard we will repair or replace restorations damaged under normal usage (no chewing ice!) for five years.
Will people be able to tell they are veneers/crowns?
People will definitely notice that something about you has changed; for the better of course! Most will not be able to place exactly what has changed. Few, very few, will know you had cosmetic dentistry done.
Will it hurt?
Some patients experience minimal sensitive for a few days after they have had their teeth prepared. Once your final teeth are on you may experience the same for a few days. Most patients are too busy showing off their new smile and don’t notice!
Do I have to come to your office for cleanings or can I return to my previous dentist?
Though we would love to have you as a regular patient for your cleanings and exams there is no reason you need to return. If your current doctor and hygienist are familiar with cosmetic veneers/crowns and how to care for them then you should be fine. While you are here though we’d be happy to show you a little about our advanced hygiene program and our amazing hygienist!
Why do your veneers/crowns look so much nicer than the ones I’ve seen on friend/others?
Dr. Tsai and her team have trained at the world renowned LVI. This institute is where the worlds leading doctors and labs gather to learn and share the latest materials, techniques and ideas about cosmetic dentistry. We use only the highest-quality labs in the world - they are also LVI Certified- to make your smile. The end results are stunning, beautiful smiles!
What will I have after the prep and before I get my final teeth?
We can’t tell you how often our patients call us the day or so after we prepare their teeth and ask if they can just keep the temporary veneers/crowns. We use a specialized material to make your temporary smile and we mold it from the wax-up smile you helped us create! Thus your temporary smile looks very close to what your final smile will. Beautiful!
Will my insurance cover any of the cost? If not why?
Most insurance plans are geared towards preventative care such as cleanings, exams and x-rays. They typically provide minimal benefits towards restorative dentistry such as crowns and bridges etc. and even less towards cosmetic dentistry. Rest assured that we will do everything we can to maximize your insurance reimbursement - and minimize your out-of-pocket expense. It is best to view dental insurance as a form of financial assistance rather than something that limits how beautiful your smile can be.
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