Many people are unhappy with their smiles due to chips, stains, gaps, misalignments, and other imperfections. While some of these flaws can be corrected by traditional cosmetic dentistry techniques, a more permanent solution is available through porcelain veneers. These wafer-thin shells cover the front surfaces of teeth to transform them, and they look remarkably natural and attractive.
In the past, getting porcelain veneers required multiple dental visits. During the first visit, dentists would file down the teeth they were going to place the veneers on. They then made a mold of the patient’s mouth by asking them to bite down on a putty-like substance, which they sent off to an off-site lab to be designed and created. Once the veneers were ready, the patients would return to have them bonded to their original teeth. The procedure could take a month or even a month and a half. In some cases, the dentists would shape the original tooth to fit the veneer more comfortably.
Porcelain veneers eliminate the need for this messy and time-consuming process. Instead, the Northbrook cosmetic dentist who offers these treatments, Smart Dental, uses digital imaging and other advanced tools to create a model of the patient’s smile. This allows him to demonstrate the results that can be achieved with this treatment and give the patient an accurate sense of what their new smile will look like.
The process of preparing the teeth for veneers involves minimal enamel removal, so there is very little pain or discomfort involved with this treatment. During the next visit, the dentist will check that the veneers fit properly and make any minor adjustments as needed. They will then use a special bonding material to attach the veneers to the teeth, and they will harden it with a special light.
Veneers are resistant to staining, which means they will remain bright and white for a long period of time. However, the best way to protect these cosmetic enhancements is to follow good oral hygiene practices and schedule routine dental visits. This will help to ensure that the gums around the veneers are healthy and free of cavities and other issues.
Unlike many cosmetic enhancements, porcelain veneers have several other benefits that extend beyond beauty. They serve as safeguards against chipping, whitening treatments that might damage natural teeth, and they can be used to correct misalignments and gaps without the lengthy commitment of orthodontic work. They can also reduce tooth sensitivity, making it easier to enjoy food and drink.