Porcelain veneers are a sought-after choice for those looking to enhance their smiles. They offer a way to cover dental imperfections like stains, chips, or gaps. Before deciding if veneers are right for you, it’s essential to understand both their benefits and drawbacks. This will help you make an informed choice about your dental care.
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
These are thin shells put over the front of your teeth. They are formulated to fit your teeth and match your natural tooth color. Many people choose veneers to improve the look of their smiles. Some common reasons include:- Covering stained or discolored teeth
- Fixing chipped or broken teeth
- Closing gaps between teeth
- Correcting minor alignment issues
How Porcelain Veneers Work
Getting porcelain veneers in Calgary involves a few key steps. First, our dentist will do an assessment of your teeth to make sure that they are healthy and suitable for veneers. Next, we will remove a small amount of enamel from the surface of your teeth. This step is crucial as it makes room for the veneers to fit properly. Impressions of your teeth are then taken to create custom veneers. These impressions or outlines are sent to a dental lab, where the technicians craft the veneers to match your teeth perfectly. When the veneers are ready, you’ll return to our dentist near you. We will check the fit and color, making adjustments if needed. Finally, the veneers are bonded to your teeth using a strong adhesive. This procedure can take a few visits, but the result is a beautiful, natural-looking smile.Benefits of Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers offer numerous advantages for improving your smile. One of the main benefits is the enhanced appearance of your teeth. Veneers can cover stains, chips, and gaps, giving you a brighter, more even smile. They are also very durable. Made from strong porcelain material, veneers can last many years with proper care. Another significant benefit is their resistance to stains. Unlike natural teeth, porcelain veneers do not stain easily from foods and drinks, helping maintain a bright smile. Additionally, the procedure involves minimal tooth structure removal. Only a small amount of enamel is taken off, preserving most of your natural tooth structure.Potential Drawbacks of Porcelain Veneers
While porcelain veneers have many benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider:- Cost considerations: Veneers can be expensive and often not covered by insurance.
- Possible sensitivity issues: Some people experience increased tooth sensitivity after getting veneers.
- Irreversibility of the procedure: Once enamel is removed, it cannot be restored, making the procedure permanent.
How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?
Porcelain veneers can last for a long time with proper care. On average, they last between 10 to 15 years. Several factors can affect their longevity:- Oral hygiene: Brushing (2 times) and flossing (1 time) regularly helps keep your veneers in good condition.
- Diet: Avoiding hard or sticky foods can prevent damage to your veneers.
- Habits: You can extend the life of your veneers by refraining from chewing on hard objects and not using your teeth to open packages.
Are Porcelain Veneers Right for You?
Deciding if porcelain veneers are right for you involves considering your dental health and cosmetic goals. Ideal candidates for veneers typically have:- Healthy teeth and gums
- Minor cosmetic issues, such as discolored or chipped teeth
- Realistic expectations about the results
- Extensive decay or gum disease
- Significant alignment issues that require orthodontic treatment
- A tendency or habit to grind or clench your teeth
