Eating delicious foods and beverages can take its toll on your teeth, causing stains and wearing away the enamel, which can lead to chipping and cracking. While there are some temporary measures you can choose to brighten your smile, porcelain veneers offer a permanent solution to correct any cosmetic dental problems that you may have. Read more to learn how you can create a winning smile with porcelain veneers.
What are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are a thin film of ceramic material that is applied to the front of the tooth to correct any cosmetic dental problems. Porcelain veneers offer a more natural-looking appearance than many other types of veneers, and the durable porcelain material means that the veneers last anywhere between 10 and 15 years before they need replacing if they are well cared for.
How are Porcelain Veneers Applied?
Porcelain veneers are applied over several visits to the clinic and are customized to match your smile. Before you can receive veneers, Dr. Owens will check the condition of your teeth to make sure that you are a suitable candidate. This consultation may include x-rays and taking an impression of your teeth.
At the next session, your dentist will take a sample of enamel from the tooth to receive the veneer to determine the correct shade, and a local anesthetic will be administered so you won’t feel any discomfort. Dr. Owens will shave a small amount of enamel off the tooth to make room for the veneer. A model or impression is then taken of the tooth so the veneer can blend in seamlessly with the rest of your teeth.
While the veneers are being fabricated, your dentist may give you a set of temporary veneers to wear if you choose.
At your next appointment, Dr. Owens will clean, polish and etch your tooth to roughen the enamel for a stronger bond before using dental cement to attach the thin porcelain shell to the front of the tooth. A specialized light is then used to cure and dry the cement to prevent the veneer from shifting.
The veneer may then need to be polished or shaped to achieve the correct natural-looking luster and help it to blend in with your other teeth.
After the procedure, you may experience some increased sensitivity to hot and cold for up to two weeks, and you will also need to come in for a follow up consultation to check on the placement of the veneers and whether you are experiencing any gum irritation.
What Conditions Do Porcelain Veneers Treat?
Porcelain veneers are a permanent cosmetic dental solution to correct a variety of dental problems. Some of these problems include:
- Discoloration due to eating highly pigmented food and beverages, or smoking
- Large gaps between teeth
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Crooked teeth
Caring for Porcelain Veneers
Just like your teeth, porcelain veneers need proper care and maintenance to improve their longevity and ensure that you won’t need repairs or replacements.
When eating hard foods like nuts, or extremely cold substances like ice, be careful not to bite down too hard as you may chip or loosen the veneer. Continue to brush your teeth twice daily with a soft bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste, as well as flossing and rinsing with mouthwash. And, schedule regular check-ups with your dentist to check the condition of your veneers.
Final Thoughts
To learn more about how porcelain veneers can improve your smile, schedule an appointment at Owen’s Cosmetic and Family Dentistry at (248)-716-8623, and we’ll help you achieve a winning smile in no time.
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