Smile enhancement procedures have been gaining momentum for decades because they help boost your self-esteem and appearance. Porcelain veneers are one such procedure that can give you a radiant and sparkling smile.
A family dentist in Greenbelt and their skilled team offer comprehensive dental care through veneers to help your smile look and feel its best year-round.
An introduction to porcelain veneers
Porcelain veneers are thin, tooth-shaped shells that are made up of porcelain (a ceramic material), camouflaging several dental flaws to enhance your oral aesthetics. These tooth-colored restorations are placed on the anterior (front) surfaces of your teeth and are customized according to your natural tooth shape and form.
Indications for porcelain veneers
Porcelain veneers help address the following dental issues:
- Chipped or broken teeth
- Cracks and crazes on the teeth
- Diastema (gaps or spaces between your teeth)
- Stains or discoloration that do not improve with teeth whitening
- Uneven or narrow smile
- Bite issues due to malalignment
- Teeth crowding
- Teeth that are too small or large
Benefits of porcelain veneers
Several dentists opt for porcelain veneers in their practice since they provide the following benefits:
- Natural looking
- Minimal tooth preparation is required as compared to dental crowns
- Veneers do not require extensive maintenance
- They are durable, with a lifespan of 15 years
- Dramatically enhance your smile
- Boost your self-confidence
- Are cost-effective
Process for getting veneers
Once you are deemed an ideal candidate for porcelain veneers, it usually requires two visits to get them. If you require other dental work (like restorations, scaling, or implants), your dentist will consider finishing them before veneer placement.
During your first visit, your dentist will prepare your tooth to remove a very thin layer of enamel (less than the thickness of your fingernail) to ensure good bonding with the veneer. Then, full mouth impressions will be recorded to customize porcelain veneers. Meanwhile, your dentist will provide temporary shells to consider how they look and feel.
On the second visit, the temporary shell will be removed, and a permanent veneer will be placed using bonding agents that promote good adherence.
Recovery and post-veneer care
It is likely to experience mild discomfort and sensitivity to different temperatures. This will gradually resolve. Usually, veneers do not require any more special care than your teeth do.
Ensure you brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day, and remember to schedule dental visits at least twice a year.
Bottom line
Porcelain veneers are permanent solutions to several dental imperfections. These greatly rejuvenate your smile and overall appearance. The better you care for your teeth, the longer the veneers will last and stay healthy-looking.
