Are you camera-shy, or do you avoid social functions because you feel self-conscious about your smile? If so, then you need to learn about cosmetic dentistry veneers. Here are six of their main benefits, along with a few considerations and warnings.
What are Cosmetic Dentistry Veneers?
Perhaps you've heard of cosmetic dentistry veneers, which are also called porcelain veneers, but you may not be quite sure what they are. Put simply, they are a type of cosmetic dental treatment designed to dramatically transform the appearance of people, so they smile more since they feel more confident about how they look.
Porcelain veneers, which are wafer-thin, are custom-made from the shells of tooth-colored porcelain. A cosmetic dentist covers and bonds the veneers to the exterior surface of a patient's tooth. As a result, this changes the size, shape, length and color of a tooth. They're also used for other cosmetic corrections, such as orthodontic adjustments and teeth whitening.
Advantages of Porcelain Veneers
There are several advantages of porcelain veneers.
1. A more natural, beautiful appearance is probably the biggest perk. Because they are designed to fit the contour and dimensions of your natural teeth and are lightweight, they can make your teeth look natural and attractive. Furthermore, they can match your surrounding teeth.
2. Veneers hide imperfections, which includes everything from chipped teeth and dark ugly stains to gaps between teeth. This gives you a more beautiful smile.
3. Durability is another huge benefit. Consider how veneers are even harder than natural enamel and can resist biting force.
4. They're also stain resistant because they're porcelain and aren't porous, which is not the case with tooth enamel. This is especially beneficial if you smoke, drink a lot of coffee and/or tea, besides eat certain staining foods, such as blueberries.
5. Veneers have a long lifespan and are good for many years. In fact, porcelain veneers can last for as long as 15 years, which is better than plastic veneers with a lifespan of only seven years.
6. What's more, veneers are easy to maintain. Of course, they require routine checkups, at least every six months, along with regular brushing and flossing, just as your natural teeth do. Just don't crack or bite hard nuts, ice, candy or other hard items as this can damage your veneers.
Considerations and Warnings
- Although just about anyone with irregularly-shaped or damaged teeth can benefit from veneers, there are some people who may not be good candidates, such as those with unhealthy or weak teeth. People with severely crowded or crooked teeth may also not be suited for this cosmetic dental treatment. To know if you're a good candidate for veneers, consult a highly qualified and experienced cosmetic dentist, such as Charlotte dentist Dr. William Linger.
- Veneers are the ideal answer for people born with the genetic problem of irregular spacing between the teeth that can worsen with age.
- Thanks to advancements in dental technology, today's veneers look even more natural than those made in the past. Also, new kinds of porcelain are more durable and can reflect light much like natural enamel. Moreover, digital imaging allows dentist to create same-day restorations.
- Teeth whitening, dental crowns and other types of dental treatments can be combined with veneers.
- Porcelain veneers involve less tooth enamel being removed than what is required for crowns or caps. Consider that a dentist only removes about .5 millimeter of enamel from the surface of your tooth. This about is about the same width of the veneer that's to be added.
- As you age, your teeth begin to decline, even if you've taken good care of them for the last three decades of your life. This can lead to having a tooth extracted, leaving you with a gap in your gum line. However, porcelain veneers can be a perfect solution for correcting this issue.
You don't have to remain self-conscious about how you look and smile. Let Dr. William Linger radically transform your appearance. Please contact us and set up an appointment for a free consolation where you can learn more about our Charlotte-based concierge dental practice, which offers a wide range of dental services, all under one roof.
