Veneers are a popular cosmetic treatment that can be used to correct a variety of problems with the front surfaces of the teeth. They can also disguise issues with the shape or alignment of your teeth. They are minimally invasive and look very natural.
How Can Veneers Help My Smile?
Veneers are placed on the front of the teeth, so they are most effective for treating damage, discoloration, or other problems with the tooth surfaces, including the shape of the tooth and minor alignment issues that are not serious enough to require orthodontic treatment. Some problems commonly treated with veneers include:
- Severe discoloration
- Pitting, cracks, or chips
- Asymmetrical teeth
- Small gaps
- Minor misalignment
This kind of cosmetic dentistry treatment can make a dramatic difference in the way your teeth look. It restores your smile without drastically reshaping your teeth or causing you to undergo long, complex treatments. They are also relatively easy to care for, and are very durable.
How Veneers Work
Veneers are very thin and made of porcelain. They can be affixed directly to the tooth surface, but in some cases, a thin layer of enamel must be removed to make room for them. They are constructed based on molds of your teeth, so they are custom-made and look very natural when they are set permanently into place. They require little care, but you should be careful not to expose them to staining agents and avoid habits that could chip the edges of the porcelain.
The use of porcelain in veneers is what helps them look so realistic. Porcelain is semi-translucent, so light penetrates it slightly before it is reflected back. This mimics the way natural enamel and the dentin beneath it reflect light. Therefore your teeth will have the same kind of luster as untreated teeth rather than a flat, plastic-like appearance that occurs with some types of tooth restorations.
If you are interested in cosmetically enhancing your smile, stop by the office of Samuel F. Jirik, DDS, and set up an appointment with the friendly team of specialists.