Are Porcelain Veneers For You?

Porcelain veneers are customized, tooth-colored coverings that are bonded to the teeth to improve their look and functionality. Veneers can correct a multitude of cosmetic dental concerns including crooked, discolored, small/short, misshapen, chipped and/or broken teeth. While results vary, porcelain veneers can last up to fifteen years and are stain-resistant which adds to their appeal. In some cases, veneers can last even longer if they are well-maintained.

Benefits

Porcelain veneers can be transformative for your smile and your confidence. The following are just a few of the many benefits that veneers can provide:

1. Fixes gap(s) in between teeth without braces

Porcelain veneers can be placed much quicker than the time it takes for braces to close the gap(s) in your teeth.

2. Gives the illusion of a white smile by covering up discolored teeth

Veneers are stain-resistant which allows them to remain white and beautiful while hiding discoloration permanently.

3. Elongates teeth that are too short for the face

A cosmetic dentist can customize the length of the veneers to ensure an aesthetically pleasing smile.

4. Corrects misshapen teeth for an even smile

The veneers can be placed in such a way that they disguise any crooked teeth.

5. Enhances the smile in two to three dental appointments

Alternative treatments such as orthodontic care can take anywhere from a few months to a few years in order to permanently correct your smile.

Are you a candidate?

The following characteristics may indicate that you are a candidate:

1. Healthy gums (no signs of gum disease)
2. Teeth that have no evidence of decay
3. Whitening-resistant teeth
4. Time-sensitive cases (If teeth need to be corrected quickly, veneers can help)

What is the treatment process?

The overall process requires a skilled cosmetic dentist in order to achieve the desired result. Treatment generally doesn’t require more than three dental visits, although it may be quicker if your dentist has access to an in-house dental lab. Before your separate appointment to place your veneers, the cosmetic dentist has to roughen up the tooth’s surface to allow the veneers to be more securely placed. Once the teeth have been properly prepped, the dentist will color-match the shade of your surrounding teeth to the veneer to make sure they don’t clash. During your second (or third) appointment, the veneers are placed and shaped to your liking.

How to maintain porcelain veneers:

For the longest lasting result, adhere to the following guidelines:

5. Avoid chewing on especially hard objects that may damage your veneers (pens, ice, fingernails, etc.)
6. Wear a mouthguard during athletic activities to avoid dental damage
7. Make sure to wear a nightguard to protect the veneers if you grind or clench your teeth at night
8. Stick to chewing with your back teeth to spare the front teeth, where your veneers are placed
9. Do not use your teeth as tools, this will stress and damage the veneers.

Advanced DDS is a premiere dental practice in Garden City, NY that provides exceptional cosmetic dentistry as well as all dental services. Schedule a cosmetic dental appointment with our team of dentists at 516-825-1100.