Unfortunately, very few people are born with a flawless smile. And, up until fairly recently, there wasn’t always a whole lot that could be done about it! Thankfully, we have many modern options today such as porcelain veneers in Lakewood that are fantastic for giving someone’s smile a whole new appearance. In this blog, you’ll learn about what porcelain veneers are, what types of flaws they can correct, and how to know if they’re right for you!
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are thin, strong “shells” that are precisely matched to the color and shape of your existing teeth so they look very natural. They’re semi-permanently adhered to the front of the teeth while leaving the majority of the tooth’s structure intact.
They’re usually done in just two visits. At the first, a small amount of enamel is removed from your existing tooth to allow room for the veneer to be placed.
Then you’ll wear a temporary veneer for 1-2 weeks while your custom-made veneer is being made. At your second visit, it will be cemented into place and will blend in seamlessly with the rest of your smile.
With basic care and maintenance, porcelain veneers can last about 10-15 years.
What Kind of Flaws Can Porcelain Veneers Fix?
Porcelain veneers are not only great for a wide variety of flaws, but they’re an especially great way to “kill two birds with one stone” for anyone who has multiple issues to correct, including:
- Chips and cracks
- Small or oddly shaped teeth
- Severe staining or discoloration that doesn’t respond to whitening treatments
- Minor gaps or crowding
Are Porcelain Veneers Right For You?
Another advantage of porcelain veneers is that they work well for so many people. Having said that, there are a few exceptions such as patients who have severe gum problems or cavities.
A healthy smile is a beautiful smile, so a dentist may recommend addressing those needs first, or simply decide that an alternative treatment option would be better.
Since everyone is different, the best way to know which procedures are right for you is to schedule a consultation with a dentist in Lakewood. After discussing your goals and dental history, they’ll be able to give you a specific idea of what will work best!
About the Author
Dr. Vincenzo Artino is a general, restorative and cosmetic dentist in Lakewood who works closely with his patients to understand their cosmetic goals and create the perfect treatment plan for their needs. He loves seeing how the right procedure can transform someone’s self-confidence and enhance their entire life. If you’re considering porcelain veneers and have any questions, he can be reached via his website.