There are plenty of reasons we might hate our teeth. Perhaps you chipped your front tooth on a popcorn kernel, and you just can’t help but notice. Maybe after your braces, despite your dentist’s persistence, you never wore your retainer, and again your smile is crooked. Or maybe you just quit smoking, but still wear the stains of the last ten years. Whatever the reason you may be thinking about getting porcelain veneers, before doing anything, you probably want to know a little more about them.
If that’s you, you’ve come to the right place. Below you’ll find everything you need to know about porcelain veneers.
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
The word “veneer” was originally a wood-working term used to describe the process of applying a thin, decorative piece of wood over coarser, less attractive wood. This process is a cost-effective option that allows woodworkers to create affordable furniture that looks expensive, but only uses a fourth of the materials. Porcelain veneers in the dentistry world are essentially the same thing. Much like a wooden veneer, dental veneers can conceal several cosmetic concerns you may have with your smile in just one treatment.
Porcelain veneers are a wafer-thin shell crafted from medical-grade ceramic that are applied to the visible surfaces of teeth. Similar to a tooth crown, they can cover up any cosmetic issues you might have with your smile, presenting a natural-looking smile that looks perfect.
What Is the Process Like?
The process of applying porcelain veneers is really quite simple, and can be done in just two appointments. The first appointment is dedicated to working with your dentist to construct the perfect smile by taking impressions which will be used to construct the veneers. Your teeth will also be prepared to receive the veneers, and you will be given temporary veneers. On your second visit, your dentist will fit your permanent veneers, making any needed adjustments before bonding them to your teeth. After the initial process, there will be no need for further appointments beyond your regularly scheduled check-ups. With proper care, your veneers can last upwards of twenty years!
Are Veneers Right for You?
Dental veneers are best for those patients hoping to fix multiple cosmetic issues at once, or those with more difficult cosmetic issues like the size and shape of your teeth. If you’re simply dissatisfied with the color of your smile, starting with a procedure like professional whitening might be better. If you have problems beyond stained teeth, then porcelain veneers just might be the best option.
For help making the decision about veneers, you should schedule an appointment.
If you live in Rockland County and you’re interested in porcelain veneers, call (845) 627-7645 or email us today for an appointment with cosmetic dentist Dr. Mark Dunayer!
