Porcelain Veneers
There are numerous reasons dentists from Dental Care of Michigan would recommend porcelain veneers to improve the look of your teeth.
Maybe you had a sports injury or other type of accident and as a result, chipped a front tooth. Or, perhaps you have always lived with a gap between your teeth. Sometimes, porcelain veneers would do a better job at improving the color of your teeth than standard teeth whitening could. In addition, porcelain veneers can be used after a root canal to restore the appearance and function of the tooth.
The dentist will examine your mouth, discuss your concerns and help you decide if porcelain veneers are the best way for you to achieve a create a beautiful, natural looking smile.
Common Questions About Porcelain Veneers
What is a porcelain veneer?
The veneer is a very thin layer of porcelain that is custom made and permanently attached to your tooth.
Will the tooth with the porcelain veneer look whiter than my other teeth?
The dentist will match the porcelain to your existing teeth so it will blend in seamlessly with the rest of your teeth.
What’s the difference between a porcelain veneer and a crown?
Both are made from porcelain however; a crown is used to cover the entire tooth while a veneer is just attached to the front of the tooth. The veneer is much thinner than a crown and the dentist only needs to remove a small amount of the tooth. With a crown, the dentist must remove more of the tooth enamel.
How long do porcelain veneers last?
Recent studies show porcelain veneers can last at least 10 years, sometimes even 20 years. Regular dental checkups and proper daily care of your teeth at home, go a long way in keeping your veneers for as long as possible.
How do I take care of my porcelain veneers?
Proper oral hygiene—regular brushing and flossing—is the first step to keeping your porcelain veneers clean. Since they only cover a portion of your tooth, decay can occur underneath the surface of the veneer, and you can you can still develop gum disease. The dentist will review the proper way to floss so you do not damage the veneer.
How do I keep my porcelain veneers so white?
Porcelain veneers do resist stains, but that doesn’t mean staining will never happen. The same foods and drinks that can stain natural teeth; coffee, tea, wine, soda and tobacco can darken your veneers. It’s helpful to brush after enjoying these foods and beverages to reduce staining.