subject: Porcelain Veneers May Be An Option For You [print this page] Porcelain veneers are an aesthetically pleasing cosmetic dentistry procedure used to correct minor dental problems such as teeth that are worn down, discolored, have gaps, chipped or broken teeth, uneven, misaligned or irregularly shaped teeth. While porcelain veneers can be made with either porcelain or resin, porcelain veneers look more like your natural teeth and resist stains better than resin. They last anywhere from five to ten years and require no special care other than typical good oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing regularly.
The normal dental procedure of getting veneers usually involves three trips to the dentist or cosmetic dentist. During your first visit, you and your dentist should discuss the overall effect you are looking for after the procedure is finished. Your dentist will then want to examine your teeth and gums to ensure you are a good candidate for veneers. Individuals who have gum disease or weakened teeth are not good candidates for this procedure nor are people who have the tendency to grind their teeth.
Your second visit will prepare your teeth to have veneers placed on them. The dentist will need to shave about 1/2 millimeter of your enamel to make room for the veneers. He/she will also need to make a mold of your teeth to send to the laboratory so your veneers will be customized to your needs. It usually takes one to two weeks to get the veneers back from the lab.
Once the dentist has received your porcelain veneers, the final step is bonding the veneers to your teeth. Before anything lasting is done, however, your dentist will want to compare the size and color of the veneer to your teeth to ensure a proper fit and natural effect. Your teeth will then be cleaned, polished and etched. Etching the teeth creates a rough surface that will enable the veneers to adhere more strongly. The bonding cement is then placed on the veneer and the veneer onto your tooth. Once this is done, a special light beam is directed over the veneer to activate the bonding process. Finally, your cosmetic or general dentist will remove any excess cement from your teeth, check your bite and make any adjustments needed.
The final result is a better, brighter smile. One that you will be more than happy to show off! Porcelain veneers are available to everyone. Find out if you are a candidate by talking to a local dentist. There are plenty of financing options available as well.
