Veneers are an excellent alternative to crowns and can perfect a patient’s smile by masking stains, hiding chips, correcting misalignment and creating uniformity. A veneer is a thin layer of material placed over a tooth either to protect it, or more commonly, to enhance its appearance.
Veneers are commonly used to fix:
- discolored teeth
- worn down teeth
- chipped or broken teeth
- misaligned, uneven or irregularly shaped teeth
- a gap between teeth
There are certain advantages to porcelain veneers over other veneers. They are more durable, less susceptible to decay and are less likely to stain. They are made of a thin layer of glass-like material which mimics natural enamel both in durability and translucency. The translucency allows light to enter and reflect off the dentin underneath, and this provides a whiter smile.
Porcelain veneers are put in over a minimum of two appointment visits. During the initial appointment, an impression of the teeth is taken and sent to the lab for the construction of the veneers. A thin layer of the natural enamel on the teeth to be corrected will be removed in order to make room for the veneer.
During the second appointment the veneers will be attached to the remaining tooth structure using a gentle bonding agent. This can be done either with or without the use of local anesthesia.
With today’s improved bonding methods and materials, veneers can last anywhere from 10 to 30 years. Reasons for replacements include cracking, leaking, chipping, discoloration, decay, shrinkage of the gum line, damage from injury or tooth grinding.
Not everyone is a candidate for this procedure. A patient with weak teeth, gum disease, little enamel or a tendency to teeth grinding may not qualify.
For more information about Veneers, call Goers Dental Care in Darien – 630-789-0900.