Things to Know about Porcelain Veneers

At ÉLan Dentistry, a porcelain veneer is a layer of thin, custom-made porcelain that fits over the front surface of your tooth. Think of it as a false fingernail that protects the damaged tooth from further decay or damage. The veneer changes the shape and color of the damaged tooth and protects it from being chipped or broken. They are used to fix teeth that are misshapen or discolored. They can also close gaps between your teeth, fill small cavities, and cover stains that cannot be removed with teeth whitening treatments. Because porcelain veneer is a wafer-thin layer covering the natural tooth surface, it is stronger and more durable than bonding and will not stain.

The Procedure of Porcelain Veneer

Porcelain veneers are thin, tooth-shaped shells designed to cover the front surface of your tooth to improve the appearance of your smile. These shells fit over your teeth and can only be removed if damaged or no longer effective cosmetically. The procedure to get a porcelain veneer begins by preparing the affected tooth. The first step is to remove the thin enamel layer from the tooth's front surface so the veneer can be bonded to the surface with a strong resin cement. An impression is then taken of the prepared tooth and sent to the lab, where the permanent veneer will be fabricated. After a few weeks, you return to the office to have the temporary veneer removed and your new permanent one placed. Sometimes, your dentist may place a temporary veneer on the tooth and schedule a second appointment later to place the final veneer. Once in place, the veneer blends seamlessly with your natural teeth; no one can tell you even have veneers.

The Benefits of Porcelain Veneers

The benefits of porcelain veneers are vast and go far beyond just getting your teeth looking pearly white again. These thin shells are bonded to the front of your teeth, and they can do everything from giving you an even smile to covering any cracked teeth you may have. Because porcelain is stain resistant, your veneers will stay bright for years if you practice good oral hygiene.

Another great benefit of getting porcelain veneers is that they can strengthen and protect your teeth from damage. Because the veneers are so strong, they can also help reinforce the strength of your tooth enamel to resist cavities better. Veneers can even cover up chips or cracks in existing tooth enamel, helping prevent further decay. If you have gaps in your smile where a tooth used to be, veneers are also a great way to fill those gaps and help restore your smile’s symmetry. No matter what you need to be restored, veneers can help. They’re an ideal solution for perfect teeth, no matter what restorations you’re after.

If you want to learn more about the benefits of porcelain veneers visit ÉLan Dentistry at 1030 West Imperial Hwy, La Habra, CA 90631, or call (714) 364-8181 to book an appointment.