Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are among the simplest dental restorations, which can have a massive positive effect on the aesthetics of one’s smile. These wafer-thin restorations made from dental-grade porcelain are bonded to the frontal surface of the teeth. Though they are primarily used for cosmetic purposes, they can also restore the teeth to their ideal structure and contour.
Are you a candidate for porcelain veneers?
Porcelain veneers are used for multiple purposes, both cosmetic and restorative. If you have the following dental concerns, you would be the right candidate for veneers:
Cracked teeth: Teeth that are cracked due to external trauma can have their dental pulp exposed to the microbes in the mouth. Also, leaving them untreated can make the crack bigger, thereby putting the tooth at risk. Such teeth can be restored by bonding veneers to their surface.
Chipped or misshapen teeth: Teeth that are out of shape can ruin the beauty of your smile. In particular, chipped teeth can expose the root canal cavity to microbes, which can cause a severe infection. Veneers can be bonded to them to restore their shape and cover the exposed root canal as well.
Discolored teeth: The teeth may stain when you do not practice optimum oral hygiene or consume a lot of colored foods. It is prominent in individuals who chew tobacco or smoke cigarettes. When the extent of staining is severe, teeth whitening procedures may not be suitable to get rid of the discoloration. In such instances, veneers can be bonded to the teeth to make them appear whiter.
Excessively spaced teeth: The teeth could be separated by excessive spaces, which is a type of malocclusion. Veneers can be bonded to such teeth to get rid of the displeasing gaps and render evenly spaced teeth.
What are the advantages of veneers?
- Veneers offer excellent longevity
- Though they are quite thin, they are known for their durability
- They are highly versatile restorations as they can be used to treat several dental issues
- They help to save the natural tissues of the teeth as the preparation phase involves removing a thin layer of enamel
- They can mimic the appearance of the natural teeth perfectly, thereby avoiding being distinguished
How are veneers bonded?
The dentist will determine your candidacy for veneers by conducting a thorough diagnosis. Next, a thin layer of enamel will be removed by buffing the tooth, after which it is scanned to create a digital impression. The data from the scan is shared with a dental laboratory, where the veneer will be fabricated from dental-grade ceramic. During the next consultation, the dentist prepares the tooth by cleaning and etching it with a suitable etching solution. The veneer will be set on the tooth and checked for fit, after which it will be bonded permanently using dental adhesives. A bite test would also be conducted to ensure you feel comfortable with the veneer in place.
To have a consultation with our dentists, please schedule an online appointment or call us at (501) 758-7462, and we will be happy to help.