It’s the time of year for giving thanks — but is your smile on the list? If you are unsatisfied with the appearance of your teeth, there is an excellent solution available in porcelain veneers. Our doctors, your cosmetic dentist in Lancaster, PA, can transform your smile, just in time for the holidays! Maybe you have questions about porcelain veneers, like what they can correct, how long they last, and whether or not veneers are right for you. You’re not alone. Keep reading to learn more about the popular esthetic treatment.
What Are Porcelain Veneers Used For?
Porcelain veneers can correct virtually any cosmetic issue. From chipped, cracked, stained, and uneven teeth to oddly-textured enamel — veneers work by simply covering up the problem.
Dental veneers are thin, tooth-shaped sheaths of dental porcelain, a material that looks and feels just like your natural teeth. Veneers are permanently affixed to the front side of the teeth that show when you smile. When cared for properly, they can last for a decade or more.
The benefits of porcelain veneers are many. They include…
- Multiple cosmetic imperfections are corrected in just two visits to the dentist.
- The procedure for veneers is minimally-invasive.
- Dental porcelain is highly resistant to stains.
- Local anesthesia and/or sedation is available for your comfort every step of the way.
Veneers are completed over two appointments to your cosmetic dentist’s office. In the first visit, a treatment plan is put in place and your teeth are prepared for the veneers. Feel free to bring photos of smiles you admire into this appointment — veneers are fully customizable to match the size, shape, and color that will suit you best.
You will wear temporaries while the permanent veneers are created in the time between appointments. After one to two weeks, your veneers are ready and you return to our dental office for their final placement.
Are Porcelain Veneers Right for You?
Most adults who are interested in transforming the appearance of their smiles with porcelain veneers are good candidates for the treatment. You should have healthy teeth and gums before having any elective dental procedure. A checkup and cleaning will be scheduled with your dentist in advance of veneers. Patients with gum disease or tooth decay will need to undergo treatment first.
While most people are eligible for the veneer procedure, teeth that are weak, worn, or structurally damaged may be best served by a dental crown. And yes, veneers can sometimes eliminate the need for braces, but seriously crooked or misaligned teeth should still be treated with traditional orthodontia. Your dentist can help you understand which is best for your smile, and why.