Porcelain Veneers

What are porcelain veneers?

Porcelain veneers are very thin ceramic shells that create a beautiful, straight, white smile. They are carefully and perfectly matched to your natural teeth, then bonded to the front surfaces of teeth for a secure, long-lasting and comfortable fit.

Are porcelain veneers better than dental bonding?

During dental bonding , a paste-like material is applied to the tooth, then shaped and polished. Dental bonding is opaque and does not offer the translucency or natural light-reflecting qualities of porcelain. The end result achievable with porcelain veneers is cosmetically superior to dental bonding.

Are porcelain veneers a good alternative to braces?

Depending on a person’s age and the extent of their dental problem, porcelain veneers may be an excellent alternative to braces . Braces, or orthodontics, may be preferable in teen or young adult patients who need all their teeth repositioned.

If your dental defects are relatively minor, veneers can give you a gorgeous new smile in just two visits. For most adults, particularly busy professionals, porcelain veneers are preferable, because they enhance your smile without the downtime or embarrassment of a mouthful of metal, and they offer an improvement in whiteness as well.

How are porcelain veneers applied?

At Exceptional Dentistry, the application of porcelain veneers requires just two dental visits. During your first visit, Dr. Patel will choose your veneer size, shape, and color. The surface of each tooth is roughened and very slightly reduced to create space for the veneer, and to ensure your veneers will bond securely. Precision impressions of your teeth are taken. The impressions are sent to our dental laboratory, where your veneers will be custom-made.

During your second appointment, the surfaces of your teeth are thoroughly cleaned, and a composite resin cement is used to bond the veneers. At first, they are attached lightly so that you and your cosmetic dentist can examine the fit and test your bite. When you are both pleased with them, they are attached permanently.

Will porcelain veneers stain like my natural teeth?

No. Dental porcelain is highly stain-resistant. If you are careless about caring for your teeth at home, or avoid dental checkups year after year, you will put your beautiful new smile and your oral health at risk. Take excellent care of your porcelain veneers, and they should remain white and bright.

How long do porcelain veneers last?

Porcelain veneers can last up to fifteen years with proper, regular care. It is important to prevent bacteria and decay from spreading underneath them. Excellent oral hygiene at home, including daily brushing and flossing, and regular dental checkups, are the best ways to keep your porcelain veneers clean and in perfect condition.

Do porcelain veneers require special care?

Porcelain veneers require the same good at-home oral care and regular dental checkups that your natural teeth require. Avoid activities that may chip, crack or otherwise damage the veneers, such as chewing on hard objects like ice or the end of a pen, and using your back teeth to chew hard foods.