Good To Know: Why You Should Choose Porcelain Veneers
At Montclair Dental Care in Oakland, California, we understand that a beautiful smile is built upon a strong foundation of healthy teeth and gums. Ensuring oral health is in good condition before considering cosmetic treatments like porcelain veneers is essential. Here’s a comprehensive FAQ about porcelain veneers and what you need to know before pursuing cosmetic enhancements.
What are porcelain veneers?
Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made shells crafted from dental porcelain to cover your teeth’ front surface. They mimic the appearance of natural tooth enamel and are used to address cosmetic imperfections such as:
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Deep stains or discoloration that resist whitening
- Short or worn teeth
- Shape irregularities
How are porcelain veneers applied?
The process of applying porcelain veneers typically involves two visits to our office. During the first visit, Dr. Kenneth L. Childers removes a small amount of enamel to create space for the veneer to fit naturally. Impressions of your teeth are then taken and sent to a dental lab, where your custom veneers are crafted.
On your second visit, the veneers are bonded to the front surfaces of your teeth. This bonding process conceals imperfections and enhances the natural look of your smile. Proper fitting is crucial to achieving a seamless and long-lasting result.
What are the advantages of porcelain veneers?
Porcelain veneers are highly valued for several reasons:
- Natural Appearance: Porcelain resembles natural tooth enamel, offering a beautiful and realistic finish.
- Durability: With proper care, porcelain veneers can last a lifetime and resist staining better than other dental materials.
- Minimally Invasive: Only a small amount of enamel is removed, preserving most of your natural tooth structure.
- Long-Term Results: Veneers can dramatically improve the appearance of your smile with lasting results.
Veneers are thin handcrafted porcelain shields worn on the front of the tooth which improve the appearance of teeth that are chipped, cracked, stained or worn. Veneers are thin as contact lenses, and are an aesthetically pleasing option of closing gaps, lengthening teeth, and providing symmetry to make your smile more natural. Veneers are intended to last for many years without changing color. They are one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in dentistry. Ask your dentist if veneers may be right for you.
Are there alternatives to porcelain veneers?
Yes, there are alternatives available based on your specific needs:
- Dental Bonding involves applying a tooth-colored resin directly to the tooth. This can address issues similar to those of veneers but typically in a single visit. Bonding is more cost-effective and reversible but may be less durable and natural-looking than porcelain.
- Restorative Treatments: If you have underlying tooth decay or gum disease, restorative treatments like fillings or crowns may be necessary before considering veneers.
- Professional Whitening: If the stains are surface-level, whitening treatments might be a better initial approach for patients with discoloration.
How long do porcelain veneers last?
Porcelain veneers are designed to be durable and long-lasting. With good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, veneers can last many years, often for the lifetime of the restoration. It’s important to avoid habits that can damage your veneers, such as chewing hard objects or grinding your teeth.
Porcelain veneers can transform your smile, addressing various cosmetic concerns with natural-looking results. To explore whether veneers are the right option for you or to discuss other cosmetic treatments, call Montclair Dental Care at (510) 328-7792 today. Let us help you achieve the smile of your dreams!
