Porcelain veneers are a non-surgical cosmetic dentistry option for improving the look of your smile.
Veneers can correct issues such as stained, crooked, or damaged teeth and can be an excellent option for adults and teens alike.
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are bonded to the front of your teeth to improve their appearance. Porcelain veneers are durable and resist stains, so they can last a long time if cared for properly.
How Do Porcelain Veneers Work?
Porcelain veneers make it possible for people with crooked, stained, chipped, or discolored teeth to have a beautiful smile that lasts. Veneers can also help fix minor spacing problems.
These are some of the steps involved in getting porcelain veneers:
Consultation. The first step is to schedule a consultation with your dentist to ensure you’re a good candidate for the veneers.
Treatment planning. At your consultation, the dentist will take x-rays of your teeth and analyze them to get a clear picture of your oral health and decide if you're a good candidate for porcelain veneers. If so, the dentist will then design a treatment plan based on your budget and goals.
Dental lab work. A dental lab typically creates the porcelain veneers that will be permanently placed on your teeth.
Appointment for porcelain veneer placement. After the lab sends the veneers back to your dentist's office, your dentist will affix them to your teeth. Treatment generally takes between two and four visits to complete.
Some patients may experience discomfort following treatment, but this is usually minimal and subsides after a few days.
What Can Porcelain Veneers Treat?
Porcelain veneers can improve various aesthetic dental issues, such as changing discolored teeth to a lighter shade.
Veneers can achieve other aesthetic benefits as well:
- Modifying the shape and alignment of your teeth
- Restoring broken or cracked teeth
- Repairing chipped or fractured teeth
- Hiding gaps between your teeth
How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?
Porcelain veneers are highly durable and can last as long as 12-15 years with good oral hygiene.
To help ensure that your veneers last as long as possible, avoid biting into hard foods such as candy and ice, and don’t use tobacco products.
Am I a Good Candidate for Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are effective for aesthetic concerns and must be applied to healthy teeth. If you’re unhappy with the color or shape of your teeth, porcelain veneers can give you a more attractive smile.
Improve Your Smile at Oakdale Dental Associates, P.C.
Porcelain veneers are an excellent way to transform flawed teeth into a smile you’ll be proud to show off. To learn more about porcelain veneers and their benefits, contact Oakdale Dental Associates, P.C. today!
Call our office at 413-536-1782 or request an appointment online.