Porcelain veneers are one of the most “attractive” options in cosmetic dentistry. They are used in a wide variety of circumstances. Veneers can improve an unsightly smile you were born with or reverse damage done to your teeth over time. Since cosmetic veneers can be customized in color, size and shape, patients can use veneers to cover up the following types of imperfections:
- Teeth stains
- Chipped or broken teeth from an injury
- Worn down or misshapen teeth
- Damage from a root canal procedure
- Discolored fillings in front teeth
- Gaps or spaces between teeth
- Misaligned teeth
Getting porcelain veneers involves bonding wafer thin shells of porcelain on the front surface of your teeth. Patients love the instant results! In as little as two visits, you can get a full smile makeover with veneers. Before you book your appointment to get veneers, here are a few things you should know first.
It’s a permanent change. In order to strongly secure the veneers onto your teeth, a tiny portion of your tooth enamel must be shaved off. This makes the procedure irreversible.
You must have healthy tooth enamel. If your teeth are weakened or diseased, you are not a candidate for porcelain veneers.
You must address your teeth grinding habit first. If you grind your teeth, you may want to reconsider veneers, as this will only promote damage to the veneer and possibly waste your investment. You can also discuss a dental nightguard to protect your new smile from your bruxism habit.
Veneers can’t actually move your teeth. The secret behind veneers is that they cover up smile imperfections. They don’t actually align your bite, close gaps or whiten your underlying teeth. While many can consider veneers as “instant orthodontics,” this does not apply if you have bite problems due to misaligned teeth in the back of your smile.
Have your smile goals in mind ahead of time. A skilled dentist understands the artistry and science behind cosmetic veneers. Remember they can be customized in color, shape and size to meet your desired goals, so it is a good idea to start dreaming and planning for your new smile ahead of time so that you know what you want when it is time for your consult.
Have more questions about porcelain veneers and how they can improve your smile? Call Park South Dentistry today!
