Dental veneers can help you finally get the smile of your dreams. The cosmetic dentistry procedure involves placing several thin, porcelain shells onto the front surface of your teeth. Since the shells have a very natural appearance, they are virtually indistinguishable to the average person. Porcelain veneers can easily change the size, shape and color of your teeth, which may dramatically improve your overall appearance.
Many of our patients like the procedure because it's a fast and effective way to achieve a brighter smile without having to continuously pay for dental whitening procedures. Porcelain veneers also don't easily stain from food and drinks. Are you curious to see if porcelain veneers are the right fit for you? Here are five signs you may be a great candidate for this popular cosmetic dental procedure.
Sign #1. You Are Interested in a Permanent Dental Solution
If you are looking for a temporary fix to hide damaged or stained teeth - dental veneers are not for you. The procedure is somewhat permanent since we have to remove some of your tooth's enamel to make room for the porcelain veneers. We use a certain grade of cement to bond the veneers securely to your teeth so your new smile can last for years.
Sign #2: Your Teeth Are Very Discolored or Stained
Over the counter whitening treatments may not work for patients with deeply stained or discolored teeth, which can make them a potential candidate for porcelain veneers.
Whitening strips, gels and other products from the supermarket may be able to make moderately discolored teeth appear brighter, but it may not have much of an impact on teeth that are very discolored. The chemicals used in certain whitening products also tend to be abrasive and may wear down your teeth's enamel over time, making you more susceptible to forming cavities and developing other dental health issues.
Sign #3: You Have Chipped or Broken Teeth
Are you embarrassed to smile due to having chipped or broken teeth? A bad smile can make you feel less confident when you smile or speak. Veneers are a very effective restorative procedure that can cover minor dental imperfections like a chipped or cracked tooth.
Sign #4: You Practice Good Oral Hygiene Every Day
Good candidates for porcelain veneers should have relatively healthy teeth and gums. If you do decide to get porcelain veneers, don't think you are off the hook and don't have to take care of your teeth anymore! You still need to practice good oral hygiene such as flossing, brushing and getting your teeth cleaned by a professional.
If you don't think you will be able to follow your dentist's oral hygiene recommendations, you may not be a good candidate for veneers. Neglecting your gums and teeth can increase your likelihood of developing cavities, gum disease and other issues that may affect the veneers and underlying teeth.
Patients who clinch, grind use their teeth on inappropriate items may also be poor candidates for veneers since it may damage the porcelain.
Sign #5: Your Teeth Are Only Slightly Misaligned or Crooked
If your teeth are very misaligned or crooked, you should consider other dental treatments to straighten your smile before you consider getting porcelain veneers. Although veneers can safely be applied to slightly misaligned teeth, they can't usually be placed on very crooked teeth since it may cause the veneers to break or crack.
To learn more about porcelain veneers and the rest of our cosmetic dental procedures, please contact us today or call us at (704) 364 - 2510 to schedule an appointment. Dr. Linger prides himself on being one of the best cosmetic and restorative dentists in Charlotte, North Carolina.
