Should You Consider Porcelain Veneers?
Many people have porcelain veneers for their many benefits, and if you are unhappy with your smile, you may be considering cosmetic dentistry. Porcelain veneers, like dental crowns and bonding, can fix a wide variety of cosmetic dental concerns. If you would like to know more, keep reading.
Do You Have Cosmetic Concerns?
Porcelain veneers are not used for restorative dentistry, but they fix a wide variety of cosmetic concerns. Since they are only cosmetic, your insurance won't cover the cost. However, veneers can correct:
- Uneven crown lengths
- Damaged crowns
- Mild gapping between teeth
- Mild overcrowding between teeth
In addition, many patients consider veneers for stubborn tooth discoloration. Discoloration caused by intrinsic factors like trauma doesn't always respond well to teeth whitening, but since veneers replace a thin layer of enamel, they hide the discoloration.
If you're unhappy with your molars or premolars, veneers are not the right choice. Veneers only cover the front portion of teeth, making them great for front teeth, which only have two large sides. Molars, however, have four large sides, making them less appropriate for veneers. In fact, veneers may weaken those teeth.
Are Your Teeth Weak From Decay?
If your teeth are also weak from decay, porcelain veneers may not be a good idea. Since they don't fully replace the tooth's exterior, they cannot withstand as much pressure as dental crowns, and molars need to withstand a lot of pressure from chewing and grinding up food.
If your teeth are weak, you can ask about porcelain dental crowns. They fix the same problems as veneers, but they also strengthen weak teeth. Whether you get veneers or dental crowns, however, it is important to continue to care for your teeth to prevent hidden decay under the crown/veneer and gum irritation.
Do You Want Natural Results?
Finally, if you want the most natural-looking results, you will want porcelain veneers. The dental bonding material is white or off-white (depending on your wants/the color of the rest of your teeth), but it doesn't look like natural tooth tissue. Porcelain veneers have the translucency needed to make them look real.
If you want to improve the appearance of your smile and have healthy teeth, consider dental veneers. A veneer may also be a great way to fix a single fractured tooth. If you would like to know more about porcelain dental veneers, contact a dentist in your area today.