What are porcelain veneers?
Porcelain veneers are very thin, custom-made porcelain covers, which are placed over your existing teeth to improve their appearance. In order to fix a single damaged or misaligned tooth, one single veneer can be placed. Many veneers can also be used to create a complete smile makeover.
How will my dentist apply the porcelain veneers to my teeth?
Your porcelain veneers will be applied to your teeth in a two-step process and will require two appointments. At your first appointment, we will apply a local anesthetic and remove a thin layer of enamel from the front of your teeth. This removal of enamel will provide room for the veneer to be placed.
Our team will then take an impression of your teeth that will be used to create your custom-fitted veneers. At the end of this appointment, our team will apply temporary veneers to your teeth. Your temporary veneers will remain in place until your custom-fitted veneers are available.
At your second appointment, our team will remove your temporary veneers and coat your teeth with mild acid. The acid will etch the surface of your teeth to allow the veneers to adhere. Then our team will bond your custom-fitted veneers to your teeth, which would result in a natural-looking smile.
Advantages of Using Porcelain for Veneers
Veneers are made from different types of materials. However, porcelain is a very strong and durable material. It is highly resistant to breakage and thus can create a strong, long-lasting veneer. Also, porcelain veneers do not change colour or stain, resulting in a veneer that remains the ideal shade of white for your smile.
Veneers in Kitchener: The Benefits
The advantages of dental veneers make them an excellent alternative to hiding your smile if you suffer from cracked, chipped, or discoloured teeth. See the list below to understand the benefits of porcelain veneers.
- Restore the Appearance of Your Teeth
Cracked, chipped, discoloured teeth can be repaired and renewed with veneers. They can also conceal gaps between teeth, creating an even smile.
- Preserve Your Natural Teeth
The process of having veneers placed requires the removal of minimal tooth surface, unlike some other cosmetic options. This preserves the strength and appearance of your natural teeth.
- Prevent Further Discolouration
Veneers will protect your natural teeth from further staining. Therefore, you should strive to maintain the colour of your natural teeth with regular maintenance and visits to your dentist so that colour shifts don't occur between your natural teeth and your veneers.
- Low Maintenance
Porcelain veneers are resistant to stains, which is ideal for maintaining their pearly white appearance. They typically only require the same care that your natural teeth need – twice-daily brushing, flossing once per day and regular checkups.
- Increase Your Confidence
Your beautiful new smile will be hard to hide!
Am I a good candidate for veneers?
You may be a good candidate for veneers if you do not have any cavities that have not yet been treated and you are not suffering from periodontal disease.
The teeth to which you wish to apply the veneers must be healthy, with sufficient enamel and in good condition.
Generally, patients who clench or grind their teeth, bite their nails, or regularly chew ice are not good candidates for porcelain veneers, since these can chip the veneer.
When are veneers the best solution?
While almost anyone with healthy teeth is a candidate for having veneers placed, there are some circumstances that make it an excellent option.
If you have uneven, discoloured, chipped, misshapen or gapped teeth, dental veneers may be an ideal solution.
They are a less invasive procedure than some other alternatives and can provide the symmetry, colour, and size you desire.
Porcelain veneers are a relatively low-maintenance option. They require regular brushing and flossing as you would with your natural teeth.
Are veneers right for me?
If you are interested in learning more about dental veneers and want to know if they are the right choice for you, book a consultation with one of our dentists.
We can discuss your goals and determine the best approach for your needs.