Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are custom-designed shells of tooth-like ceramic material applied over the surface of a tooth. Porcelain Veneers can cover worn tooth enamel, uneven tooth alignment, cracks, chips and spacing gaps. Dental veneers fall into the realm of cosmetic dentistry because they create shapely, straight and beautiful white smiles. Additionally, the ceramic used in porcelain veneers today is able to replicate the translucent quality of natural teeth. The end result is a beautiful, natural-looking smile.

No matter what your cosmetic dental issues are, dental veneers can solve most or even all of them.

Natural Wear and tear: It's completely normal for teeth to wear down as people get older. Aged teeth are more likely to have chips, cracks or a generally uneven appearance.

Genetics: Some people may inherit a smile with crowded or crooked teeth. Others may have abnormally spaced teeth with gaps that increase with age.

Uneven teeth: Uneven teeth can result from general wear and tear or tooth grinding (bruxing).

Worn enamel: As you age, your teeth's natural enamel may become discolored, worn and dulled. Sometimes, this wearing out is a natural process. Often it is a result of your personal consumption habits: drinking coffee, soft drinks, and tea. Medication use and smoking also contribute to a wearing-down of tooth enamel.

Restorative Benefit of Veneers

Porcelain veneers can also serve in a restorative capacity by protecting the surface of a damaged tooth. In some instances, veneers may replace the need for a dental crown.

Because they are so thin, porcelain veneers usually do not require any major tooth reshaping when bonded to the tooth. Once bonded into place, veneers are durable and strong; however, care must be given to avoid abuse to the veneers because they can damage or break. Brushing, flossing and practicing other oral hygiene techniques regularly will keep your veneers looking and feeling their best. Your dentist may also discourage you from eating certain foods and also recommend wearing a protective appliance while you sleep (especially if you grind your teeth).

After your veneers have been placed, you will love how they feel and look just like your natural teeth. You will finally get to enjoy the smile you always wished you had.

The Procedure

Your porcelain veneers will be custom-made to fit your unique smile. Because of this, a series of appointments will be necessary to ensure a match in color (with the rest of your teeth) and, of course, the perfect fit.

Feel free to ask your dentist any other questions you have about porcelain veneers. He is happy to answer them.