Porcelain veneers are an excellent treatment option for patients that are no longer happy with the appearance of their smile. Even individuals that go to great lengths to protect their teeth might experience issues such as gaps in their smile and severe discoloration. When these cosmetic problems take place, porcelain veneers can be used to completely restore a smile for upwards of 20 years.
A Look at Dental Veneers
Dental veneers were first invented by a Hollywood dentist that was looking for ways to improve the smiles of celebrities before they got in front of the camera. In those earlier years, veneers were designed to fit over an actor’s teeth for a short period of time while they were filming. It was not until the 1980s that the process of bonding dental veneers was perfected, and these devices became a popular restorative option.
Modern dental veneers are thin strips of porcelain that are bonded directly to the surface of a patient’s natural teeth. They can be used to alter the shape, position, or color of one’s teeth to recreate their smile. When cared for properly, porcelain veneers will often last for 20 years. They look just like natural teeth and most people forget they are even there.
What can be Treated with Dental Veneers?
Practically any cosmetic issue can be treated with porcelain veneers. The reason for this is the fact that dental veneers completely cover the natural teeth. For many patients, porcelain veneers are an excellent option for intrinsic staining.
Unlike extrinsic staining that is often the result of the foods that we eat or improper oral hygiene habits, intrinsic staining takes place well below the surface of the teeth. This means that no amount of cleaning or whitening will restore the tooth’s natural color.
Veneers can also be used to balance one’s smile if their teeth are in the improper position. These devices are ideal for adult patients that are no longer happy with the “balance” of their smile but would like to avoid metal braces. Other common cosmetic issues that can be treated with veneers include larger gaps, chipped teeth, cracks from trauma, and irregularly shaped teeth.
How Does This Process Work?
Unlike many invasive cosmetic procedures, applying veneers to a patient’s teeth is a quick process. The dentist will begin by thoroughly screening the patient for any oral health problems that could affect the veneers. They may then take molds and other measurements of the teeth in order to make the custom veneers. On the day of the procedure, the veneers will be put in position.
Caring for porcelain veneers is a simple process that requires nothing more than daily brushing, flossing, and other basic hygiene habits.
Contact the office of Dr. Samuel F. Jirik, DDS today to schedule your appointment.
