Common Questions About Dental Veneers

Porcelain veneers are one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry treatments for their versatility and appearance. Veneers are able to correct a host of aesthetic complaints at one time and restore smiles so that they look natural, straight, white, and stunning.

What problems do porcelain veneers correct?

Porcelain veneers are able to correct several cosmetic issues at one time, eliminating the need for multiple cosmetic dentistry treatments. Veneers fix problems such as:

• Chipped teeth
• Misaligned teeth
• Superficial cracks
• Misshapen teeth
• Staining or discoloration
• Worn teeth
• Uneven teeth
• Gapped teeth
• Short teeth

How are porcelain veneers applied?

The porcelain veneer procedure typically takes two visits for the dentist to complete. The process begins with the dentist making an impression of your teeth and then creating a mold of how your teeth will look once the veneers are in place. This mold is sent to a dental lab where veneers are customized for your smile – this portion of the process typically takes a few weeks.

When the veneers are ready and are deemed to be the right size, shape, color, and translucency, a special tooth-colored cement will be used to bond the veneers to the front surface of each individual tooth. Before the bonding procedure, however, teeth must be prepped to receive the veneers, and this often includes a cleaning and light sanding. Once the veneers are in place, they are shaped and adjusted to flatter your mouth shape and face. Once you and your dentist are satisfied with the appearance of the veneers, a special light will be used to harden the cement and permanently bond the veneers to your teeth. Your dentist will check your bite for comfort and functionality and confirm the perfect fit of the veneers.

What are dental veneers made of?

The dental porcelain that comprises porcelain veneers is an extremely thin, glass-like material custom-made to fit the front of your teeth. The highest quality porcelain is shaded with variations of color, mimicking the color of natural tooth enamel. The composition of dental porcelain also allows it to react to light very similarly to real, healthy tooth enamel, which makes the veneers look even more natural. Learn more about different types of veneers.

What are the benefits of porcelain veneers?

There are numerous cosmetic dentistry options available to resolve whatever oral health complaint you may have, but porcelain veneers in particular offer a great deal of advantages:

• Durability: Porcelain veneers may be thin but they are super-strong, making them resistant to chips. If you have natural teeth that have been weakened by old or broken fillings, veneers can strengthen them.
• Functionality: Porcelain veneers not only look natural, they feel natural, which means you can chew and speak easily and with confidence. Eventually, you’ll forget that there are even veneers on your teeth.
• Convenience: While it may seem like two dental visits to complete a veneer treatment is long, it’s actually a very brief amount of time, especially if a straight smile is what you’re seeking. Braces or Invisalign work wonders and work well, but if you don’t have the time or desire to invest in orthodontic treatment, veneers can reproduce the straight smile you want.
• Versatility: You have one chipped tooth, an annoying gap, and alignment issues. Porcelain veneers are sought after for their ability to correct several problems at one time and create the flawless smile you covet.
• A more youthful look: All you need to do is look at before and after photos of people who have received veneers to believe that this cosmetic dentist procedure is able to take years off of your appearance. And not only does a smile transformed by veneers make you look younger, it makes you look healthier, happier and more successful too.
• Longevity: When well taken care of, porcelain veneers can last for decades, much longer than bleaching or bonding.

How do I take care of my veneers?

Once applied to your teeth, porcelain veneers should be treated just like your natural teeth. Don’t miss your twice-annual visits to the dentist for a professional cleaning and dental exam. And be sure to brush and floss daily to clean your teeth properly. There is no special treatment needed to care for your veneers.

Have more questions about veneers?

Make your appointment with Dr. Ken Cirka, Dr. Mimi Jeon or Dr. Evan Ridge at Philadelphia Dentistry to learn everything there is to know about porcelain veneers and whether this cosmetic dentistry treatment is right for you.