Porcelain veneers are versatile cosmetic dental appliances that can conceal extensive dental flaws such as chips, cracks, gaps, stains, and misshapen teeth. They have become incredibly popular in recent decades, and you have almost undoubtedly seen them without realizing it in the smiles of many movie stars and media personalities. However, this treatment can be a big commitment, so it’s important to understand how it works before you receive it. Here are a few important facts to keep in mind about porcelain veneers.
Porcelain Veneers Require the Alternation of the Treated Teeth
Porcelain veneers are typically placed upon front teeth such as the incisors and the canines to conceal extensive or severe dental flaws like chips, cracks, stains, gaps, and misshapenness. These appliances are designed to replicate the ideal appearance of natural teeth so they can completely transform a troubled smile, but they require the removal of a small amount of dental enamel to be placed. While this process of enamel removal is irreversible, the veneers will protect the treated teeth from infection and injury.
Porcelain Veneers Eventually Need to Be Replaced
While receiving porcelain veneers provides the treated teeth with protection from damage and harmful bacteria, the patient will need to wear them from then on to keep their altered dental structure from being exposed to the oral environment. Veneers can last fifteen years or more if they receive excellent care and hygiene, but it will be necessary to replace them after they become damaged or worn out. A few signs that your appliances are ready to be exchanged include:
- Chips, scratches, or cracks
- Discoloration
- Coming loose from the tooth
- Signs of decay in the tooth
Porcelain Veneers Cannot Receive Teeth Whitening
While porcelain veneers are designed to look exactly like natural dental structure, they do not respond to whitening treatments intended for real teeth. If you’re looking for the brightest grin possible, it might be an excellent idea to receive teeth whitening from your cosmetic dentist before they apply veneers so your appliances can be matched to your brightened smile. While the effects of teeth whitening can be expected to fade, you can sustain your results by receiving touchup treatments as needed.
Knowing what to expect can take a lot of stress out of the cosmetic dental process. After a brief consultation, your dentist will be able to determine if porcelain veneers can be a great treatment for you.
About the Practice
Plush Dentistry offers exemplary oral health services to the people of Frisco. Led by Drs. M. Faizan Ali and Naira T. Kraipak, the staff ensures that each patient receives compassionate and courteous treatment in a friendly and comforting office setting. Areas of expertise include general dentistry for kids and adults as well as cosmetic dentistry such as porcelain veneers and teeth whitening. To schedule your consultation for veneers, contact the office on the web or dial (469) 256-7098.