What Are Veneers, and Are They Right for Me?
There are a host of cosmetic problems your teeth might have that may have led to a dentist recommending porcelain veneers. But what exactly are veneers, and are they a good choice to solve the cosmetic problems you’re dealing with?
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
Veneers are thin pieces of advanced ceramic that are placed over the most visible surface of the teeth, typically the front, although they can sometimes extend over the top to cover some of the back as well. We do this to beautify the teeth by brightening them and potentially reshaping them as well.
They are often called “porcelain veneers” because in the past they were usually made of porcelain. Porcelain is a bright white ceramic that closely mimics natural tooth enamel in appearance, though not in strength. The first veneers, which were made for Hollywood stars in the 1930s, were very fragile. Veneers remained fragile for many years because they were still made from porcelain, but modern veneers are made of more advanced materials, which lets them be strong as well as beautiful.
Applying the veneers is very easy and can be done in just two appointments. At the first appointment, your dentist will work with you to choose how your new smile will look. Your teeth will be prepared to receive the veneers, and impressions will be taken for use in the fabrication of your veneers. You won’t get your permanent veneers until your second visit, but you’ll be given temporary veneers at the first appointment so that you can walk out with a more attractive smile immediately! Then, at your second appointment, your dentist will fit your permanent veneers, make any necessary adjustments, and bond them to your teeth. It’s that easy!
Are Veneers Right For Me?
Veneers are a highly flexible solution, which is why they’re often recommended to correct a wide variety of different cosmetic problems. Since they completely conceal the tooth, they can solve anything from discoloration to chips and beyond.
Some staining or discoloration can’t be resolved with whitening treatments. But the shade and color of veneers can be customized to look natural and attractive, so regardless of your real tooth color, your veneers can be bright. If your teeth are oddly shaped, too small, or have visible chips or cracks, veneers can conceal those issues and take any shape you prefer. Veneers can even correct for gaps between teeth and crookedness without the need for orthodontics and months of waiting.
If you’re concerned about a lifestyle change with porcelain veneers, don’t be: They’re cared for just like your real teeth, so as long as you keep brushing, flossing, and seeing your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings, they shouldn’t require any additional effort.
Veneers have only one significant drawback: cost. Veneers are initially more expensive than treatment alternatives. However, veneers last much longer than alternatives, so they have a high value. Between their durability, stain resistance, and ease of maintenance, veneers are a great choice and justify the cost for people looking to beautify their smiles.
Talk to experienced cosmetic dentist Dr. Meghan Hodges, DMD, to learn more about how porcelain veneers can makeover your smile. Call élan at (918) 528-3330 or contact us online to make an appointment.
élan Tulsa Cosmetic Dentistry
10031 S Yale Ave #104
Tulsa, OK 74137