Why might I need Porcelain Veneers?

An increasing number of people are seeking cosmetic dentistry procedures as a way to preserve and enhance the natural beauty of their smiles. Several types of dental veneer are available, but the most popular types are composite and veneer. However, composite veneers don’t have nearly the lifespan of their porcelain counterparts, they chip and stain much more easily, and even though composite veneers can look realistic, they don’t have quite the same natural look provided by porcelain veneers due to porcelain’s translucent quality that mimics the texture of natural enamel.

As their name implies, porcelain veneers are manufactured using porcelain. Here’s what you need to know about them:

Why You Might Need Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are ideal for those whose teeth have become stained, blemished, or otherwise discolored over the years. They’re also an excellent option for correcting the appearance of chipped teeth, teeth that are poorly shaped, and minor misalignments such as small gaps. Veneers are just for cosmetic reasons, however — they can help protect fragile teeth from further damage, possibly circumventing many dental health issues down the road. Being able to present a healthy, attractive smile to the world also promotes optimal self-esteem, which leads to higher confidence levels and even to better personal relationships.

The Porcelain Veneer Procedure

Porcelain veneers generally involve two visits to your dentist’s office, and the procedure usually doesn’t require a local anesthetic except in cases where a patient has a particularly extreme sensitivity to pain. The first visit entails cleaning the applicable tooth or teeth and determining just the right shade for the veneer. Your dentist will then take an impression of the took or teeth involved to send to the laboratory that creates the veneers. You’ll be fitted with temporary veneers until the laboratory delivers your permanent ones to your dentist.

The next steps are for your dentist to remove the temporary veneer, clean the affected teeth, and attach the permanent veneers. With proper care, porcelain veneers can last longer than ten years.

Please don’t hesitate to contact our office for more information on the benefits of getting porcelain veneers.