Are you ready for a complete smile makeover? Do you want to design your dream smile from scratch? If you are hiding your smile because of stains, chips, gaps, or misshapen teeth, porcelain veneers might be the perfect solution for you.
Dr. Steven Anolik began caring for Gaithersburg smiles in 1973. Dr. Corey Anolik joined him in 2007. Together, this father-son team brings over five decades of combined experience to your smile makeover at our Gaithersburg cosmetic dentistry.
Dr. Corey Anolik has earned his Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD). It’s a distinction held by less than 6% of general dentists. He is also a Platinum Invisalign Provider, demonstrating advanced expertise in creating balanced, harmonious smiles.
Your Gaithersburg, MD, dental office proudly serves patients from Gaithersburg, Rockville, Germantown, Potomac, North Potomac, Bethesda, and all across Montgomery County.
Why Choose TotallySmiles for Your Porcelain Veneers?
Two Generations of Expertise. Dr. Steven Anolik has been restoring smiles in Gaithersburg since 1973 and has been voted one of “America’s Top Dentists.” Dr. Corey Anolik joined his father in 2007 after completing his dental degree at the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery and a hospital residency at Albert Einstein Medical Center. Together, they bring over 50 years of combined experience to your smile makeover.
FAGD Credential. Less than 6% of general dentists have earned their Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry. Dr. Corey Anolik is one of them, meaning he has completed over 500 hours of advanced training beyond dental school, with significant focus on cosmetic and restorative dentistry.
Platinum Invisalign Provider. TotallySmiles is a Platinum Invisalign Provider; the highest level of experience and expertise. Dr. Corey is also President of the Capitaligners, a local study club dedicated to mastering clear aligner therapy. This level of expertise in smile design translates directly to creating beautiful, balanced veneer cases.
Treat You Like Family. We are a family-owned practice, not a corporate chain. You will never feel rushed or pressured into unnecessary treatment. We will never recommend a procedure you don’t need.
Advanced Technology for Your Comfort. We use CEREC same-day crowns, The Wand computerized anesthetic system (virtually painless injections), iTero digital scanners, and digital impressions for a comfortable, efficient experience.
Financing Options & Membership Plan. We offer CareCredit and LendingPoint financing, as well as our Kleer in-office membership plan starting at just $29/month for uninsured patients.
Real Results and Real Smiles. See how we have transformed smiles for patients just like you. [Link to Smile Gallery]
Porcelain Veneers vs. Composite Bonding vs. Invisalign: Which Is Right for You?
Not sure which cosmetic treatment is best for your smile? Here is how they compare.
Porcelain Veneers:
- Best for: Multiple cosmetic issues (color, shape, size, gaps, minor alignment)
- Lifespan: 10-15+ years
- Stain-resistant: Yes (highly)
- Enamel removal: Yes (minimal)
- Time to complete: 2-3 weeks (two visits)
- Cost: Higher upfront
Composite Bonding:
- Best for: Minor chips, cracks, or small gaps
- Lifespan: 3-7 years
- Stain-resistant: No (can discolor over time)
- Enamel removal: No
- Time to complete: 1 visit
- Cost: Lower upfront
Invisalign:
- Best for: Crooked, crowded, or gapped teeth needing actual tooth movement
- Lifespan: Permanent (with retainer wear)
- Enamel removal: No
- Time to complete: 12-18 months
- Cost: Moderate to high
Not sure which option is right for you? During your consultation, Dr. Corey will evaluate your smile and help you choose the best path forward based on your goals, budget, and oral health.
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made ceramic shells designed to cover the front surface of your natural teeth. Because they are so thin, they require minimal enamel removal. Most of your natural tooth structure remains intact underneath.
Once a veneer is permanently bonded to your tooth, it cosmetically transforms your smile while preserving the function you need to eat, drink, and speak normally.
Depending on your needs and goals, you can get one veneer (for a single damaged or discolored tooth) or a full set to create a complete smile makeover.
What makes porcelain the ideal material? Porcelain mimics the light-reflecting properties of natural tooth enamel. It has the same translucent quality that gives natural teeth their signature sheen. Because each veneer is custom-designed to match the size, shape, and color of your surrounding teeth, it can be difficult for anyone to tell which teeth are natural and which have veneers.
The Porcelain Veneers Process
Step 1: Consultation and Smile Design
Every cosmetic procedure begins with a consultation. Dr. Corey will discuss your cosmetic goals, medical and dental history, and budget. He will also perform a thorough oral health exam to ensure porcelain veneers are the right solution for your needs. If you have underlying dental concerns such as tooth decay or gum disease, we will treat them first.
Step 2: Tooth Preparation
We will gently remove a minimal amount of tooth structure (about the thickness of a fingernail) to allow the veneer to lie flush with your surrounding teeth. This is done under local anesthesia for your comfort. We then take digital impressions of your prepared teeth using our iTero scanner without uncomfortable putty!
Step 3: Custom Fabrication
We determine the shade of white you desire and send the impressions to a master dental lab where skilled ceramists handcraft your custom veneers. While you wait (typically 2-3 weeks), you will wear temporary veneers to protect your teeth.
Step 4: Bonding and Final Placement
Once your custom veneers arrive, we will fit them to your teeth, making small adjustments to ensure a perfect fit, natural appearance, and comfortable bite. Once you are happy with the look and feel, we will permanently bond them to your teeth.
Patient Review
What Cosmetic Issues Can Porcelain Veneers Fix?
Porcelain veneers are one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments because they can address multiple issues at once:
- Stubborn Discoloration. Not all stains respond to traditional whitening methods. Porcelain veneers cover the entire visible surface of your tooth, giving you the shade of white you desire without the limitations of bleaching.
- Chipped or Cracked Teeth. As we age, our teeth sustain more damage, especially if we grind our teeth. Porcelain veneers restore a youthful appearance, and the layer of dental porcelain can also help strengthen affected teeth, acting as a protective barrier against further enamel erosion.
- Gaps Between Teeth. Each custom-made veneer can bridge gaps between your teeth while still looking completely natural. The lab crafts each one to ensure it meets the proportions of your smile and facial features.
- Misshapen or Small Teeth. If you have small or deformed teeth, veneers can give you the appearance of a balanced, perfectly sized smile without years of orthodontic treatment.
- Minor Misalignment. For teeth that are slightly crooked but do not require full orthodontic treatment, veneers can create the appearance of straight teeth in just two visits.
Metal-Free Restorations for a Natural Look
We use high-quality, metal-free porcelain for all our veneers. Porcelain is biocompatible, stain-resistant, and mimics the light-reflecting properties of natural tooth enamel. The result is a smile that looks completely natural and feels comfortable in your mouth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Porcelain Veneers
How long do porcelain veneers last?
With proper care, porcelain veneers can last 10 to 15 years or even longer. The crown may need replacement after 10-15 years due to normal wear, but the veneer itself is designed to be a long-term solution.
Does getting veneers hurt?
Thanks to local anesthesia, getting porcelain veneers involves minimal discomfort during the procedure. We also use The Wand computerized anesthetic system for virtually painless injections. You may experience some sensitivity or mild soreness after the procedure as the anesthesia wears off, but this is typically manageable with over-the-counter pain medication.
Do veneers look fake?
No. Dentists design porcelain veneers to look very natural. They are custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth. The porcelain material has a similar translucency to tooth enamel, which helps it reflect light in a way that mimics natural teeth. The quality of the outcome depends on the dentist’s expertise, and Dr. Corey’s FAGD credential and Platinum Invisalign status demonstrate his advanced expertise in smile design.
Can I get just one veneer?
Yes. Porcelain veneers are an excellent solution for repairing a single discolored, chipped, or misshapen tooth. We will color-match the veneer to blend seamlessly with your surrounding natural teeth.
Can I get porcelain veneers if I have missing teeth?
No. Dentists do not use porcelain veneers to replace missing teeth. They are designed to cover and improve the appearance of existing teeth. Dental implants, bridges, or partial dentures are more suitable options for missing teeth. We offer all of these restorative options at TotallySmiles.
Do cavities develop under porcelain veneers?
Cavities can develop under porcelain veneers if you neglect oral hygiene. The veneers themselves cannot get cavities. However, the natural tooth underneath the veneer is vulnerable to decay, especially along the edges where the veneer meets the tooth. Good oral hygiene practices help prevent cavities from forming under or around veneers.
Do porcelain veneers break easily?
No. Porcelain veneers are durable and do not break easily. They are made from high-quality dental porcelain that is resistant to wear, fractures, and temperature changes. However, like natural teeth, they can be damaged by biting on hard objects or grinding teeth. If you grind your teeth at night, ask Dr. Corey about a custom night guard to protect your veneers.
Can porcelain veneers fall off?
Porcelain veneers can fall off, but it is not common. Veneers generally last for many years, often more than a decade. However, they may come loose if the bonding agent weakens, if tooth decay develops beneath them, or if the tooth is traumatized. If a veneer falls off, store it safely and contact our office for an emergency appointment. Do not try to reattach it yourself.
Does insurance cover porcelain veneers?
Most dental insurance plans don’t cover purely cosmetic procedures like porcelain veneers. However, if a veneer is needed to restore a damaged tooth (such as after an accident), insurance may provide partial coverage. We offer CareCredit and LendingPoint financing, as well as our Kleer in-office membership plan starting at $29/month for uninsured patients.
How do I care for my porcelain veneers?
Caring for porcelain veneers is similar to caring for natural teeth. Brush twice daily, floss daily, and visit us for regular check-ups. Avoid biting on hard objects like ice or hard candy, and wear a night guard if you grind your teeth. With proper care, your veneers can last for many years.
Ready for Your Smile Makeover?
You don’t have to live with a smile that makes you self-conscious. Whether you want to brighten discolored teeth, fix chips and cracks, close gaps, or completely transform your smile, Dr. Steven Anolik and Dr. Corey Anolik are here to help.
Call TotallySmiles today at 301-701-5861 or use our form to request an appointment online.
Ask about our all-inclusive Invisalign special and flexible financing options!