Porcelain dental veneers are a great cosmetic solution for anyone who is unhappy with the appearance of their teeth and smile due to issues like discoloration, small gaps, and minor chips and cracks. But before you commit to any type of dental procedure, you need to carefully weigh the facts so that you make the correct decision.
What are porcelain veneers?
Porcelain veneers are a type of dental veneer involving the bonding of a thin porcelain sheet onto the surfaces of visible teeth. Porcelain is a strong material that closely resembles the color of natural teeth; so it makes a great choice to improve one’s smile.
Composite Veneers
Before deciding upon porcelain veneers, you should also take a look at composite veneers. This type is made from a composite resin that is similar to that used in tooth-colored dental fillings.
To receive composite veneers, your dentist would apply a malleable material onto your treated teeth in a series of layers. With the use of a light, these composite layers are hardened. Finally, your dentist would artfully sculpt the composite into the desired shape and polish it to a smooth finish.
Porcelain vs. Composite
One of the main selling points of porcelain is that it is extremely strong and durable. Composite, however, is more likely to chip, crack and become stained. Porcelain is a highly stain-resistant material that normally lasts several years longer than composite.
Composite still makes a good choice for anyone looking to save money. Receiving composite dental veneers also normally only takes one appointment, as your dentist can perform the procedure while you sit in the chair.
What To Expect
Receiving porcelain veneers normally requires two different appointments. The average time between appointments is one to two weeks.
Porcelain veneers can be applied without the use of an anesthetic, but it is available if you want it.
Your dentist begins by removing some tooth enamel from the front of your treated teeth. The amount of tooth enamel removal matches the thickness of the veneer, so the overall thickness of the tooth will not change.
After your dentist has trimmed some tooth enamel, they will create an impression of your tooth, as well as surrounding teeth and gums. This copy is used to create a mold, which is in turn used to manufacture your permanent porcelain veneers.
Your dentist will then place a temporary veneer to be worn until your permanent ones have been received back from the dental laboratory.
At a later appointment, your dentist will fit your new porcelain veneers, which have been received from the dental lab. After determining that the veneers are of the correct shade and shape, your dentist will bond your new permanent veneers into place.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you are ready to see for yourself how porcelain veneers can transform the appearance of your teeth and smile, please contact us today to book your convenient consultation.
