Modern porcelain veneers are thin shells that are placed on the front surface of one or more teeth. For a complete smile makeover, the patient, dentist, and a dental lab technician work together to create a veneer for each tooth in the smile zone. To do this, the dentist removes a small amount of enamel from the teeth, then uses a strong dental adhesive to secure each veneer.
Interested in this amazing cosmetic dental solution? Here are several factors that indicate that you are a candidate for porcelain veneers:
Intrinsic dental stains
While most extrinsic dental stains can be treated with professional teeth whitening, intrinsic dental stains cannot. These stains are usually a result of an overexposure to fluoride, medications, or trauma. Dental veneers are one of the most common dental treatments for intrinsic dental stains because they cannot be removed, they must be covered up.
Minor imperfections
Porcelain veneers are an incredible solution to several cosmetic imperfections, such as:
- Uneven teeth
- Misshaped teeth
- Gapped teeth
- Slightly crooked teeth
Veneers are best suited to correct minor to moderate cases of these flaws. Severe cases may require other cosmetic or restorative measures.
Good oral health
At your initial consultation, the dentist will check to ensure there are no signs of dental decay, gum disease, bruxism, or other oral health problems. If she finds any, those issues must be addressed and cured before placing the dental veneers.
Bruxism, also known as teeth grinding, can be especially damaging to veneers as well as your natural teeth. The dentist will likely recommend a mouthguard as well as other remedies to stop bruxism and protect your teeth from harm.
In cases where a cure isn’t possible, like not having enough dental enamel to support the veneers, the dentist will recommend other possible cosmetic solutions.
Good oral hygiene
For dental veneers to last, patients must practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing properly two times a day, flossing daily, using a dentist-approved mouthwash, and visiting the dentist every six months. Without adhering to these guidelines, the dental veneers are more likely to fail and will need to be replaced often—which means more money out of your pocket.
No harmful habits
In addition to bad oral hygiene, there are several habits that can damage porcelain veneers. Although porcelain is an exceptionally durable material, it will wear and break over time if it is continuously exposed to things like nail-biting, chewing ice, and crunching hard foods like candy. Patients should avoid these habits to preserve their dental veneers.
Porcelain Veneers in Lombard, IL
A beautiful smile can have an immense impact on a person’s self-worth and confidence. That’s why Dr. Julie Glud at Dental Care of Lombard is so passionate about helping her patients achieve picture-perfect smiles.
To learn if you are a candidate for porcelain veneers, call us today at (630) 629-700 to schedule your initial consultation.