Cosmetic blemishes, such as cracked, misshaped, stained, and crooked teeth can keep you from smiling confidently and enjoying life to the fullest. If you are unsatisfied with the shape, color, and appearance of your teeth – there are a variety of cosmetic dentistry treatments available, including porcelain veneers that are designed to dramatically improve your smile’s aesthetics.
In the early years of veneers, they had a tendency to appear thick and clunky, and were even deemed to look like white Chiclets, an old brand of chewing gum. However, with the advancements made in the field of porcelain veneers, these thin, customized shells are now the same thickness as a contact lens and can cover imperfections while still delivering realistic results.
The Porcelain Veneer Process
During your initial consultation, Dr. Denes will perform an examination of your teeth and gums to ensure you have a healthy foundation with no oral health concerns. If any tooth decay is located, you may first need to undergo a dental filling. Dr. Denes will also take the time to review your overall cosmetic goals to ensure optimal results are achieved. Once a treatment plan has been established, the veneer process can begin.
In order for veneers to deliver the ultimate aesthetic benefits, your natural teeth will need to be adequately prepared. This will require a small amount of enamel to be removed to ensure veneers fit seamlessly over your teeth, providing a natural-looking result. Once the teeth are prepared, impressions will be taken for a dental lab to use in designing your customized veneers.
Veneers are designed to match the shape and size of your natural teeth, while improving the overall aesthetics. A highly trained ceramist will tint and shape each shell being designed. To have the most dramatic effect, we generally recommend that patients first undergo a teeth whitening procedure. This will allow teeth that are not being covered with veneers to not only look whiter, but blend beautifully with your newly transformed teeth. Once your veneers are completed, Dr. Denes will attach each veneer over the teeth being treated to improve the appearance of your smile.
Benefits of Porcelain Veneers
If cost is a deterrent for considering porcelain veneers, we encourage patients to view this cosmetic treatment as a long-term investment into your oral and physical health. Because it can cover many cosmetic blemishes with just one treatment, it can help save you money by eliminating additional cosmetic treatments and numerous follow-up appointments. When veneers are properly cared for, they can last you 20-30 years, providing endless benefits, such as:
- Healthier-looking teeth
- A more symmetrical and balanced smile
- More attractive appearance
- Improved emotional wellbeing, confidence, and increased desire to smile
- Durable, stain-resistant, and long-lasting results
- Better quality of life