Cosmetic Dentistry: Improving Smiles With Porcelain Veneers

In cosmetic dentistry, there are all kinds of approaches used to improve smiles, but porcelain veneers happen to be one of the most popular. Continue reading to learn more. Over the years as dental technology has improved, so have the techniques and approaches that are used to keep the teeth healthy and attractive.

Porcelain veneers are small thin shells that go directly over teeth that are at the front of the mouth. When veneers first became popular for cosmetic dentistry purposes, they were not as versatile or refined. However, they are currently a great option to address a number of things.

Porcelain veneers in cosmetic dentistry

Outlined below are a few of the ways that porcelain veneers can be used in cosmetic dentistry to improve one's smile. This information may be useful when you are considering a cosmetic dentistry procedure.

Stained teeth

One of the most common uses for porcelain veneers in cosmetic dentistry is to cover up stains. When smiles appear damaged due to heavily stained teeth, it is highly recommended to undergo simpler procedures, such as teeth whitening. However, there are some stains that are not liftable via whitening measures. For example, years of staining from dark-colored beverages like coffee, tea, or wine may not respond to teeth whitening.

In the case where staining is not responding to the first approach, dentists may recommend alternative treatments like porcelain veneers. Because porcelain veneers are tooth-colored, the stains can be covered, resulting in a fresh-looking smile. One thing to keep in mind is that porcelain veneers cannot be whitened, which means if staining does occur over time, the only way to address stained veneers is to have them replaced completely.

Damage control

Accidents and injuries happen all the time, and they are impossible to prevent. Because of this, it is important to understand what cosmetic dentistry treatment options are available. One of the most common options that a general dentist will recommend is the placement of a porcelain veneer. For example, if a front tooth incurs a chip due to a fall or sports injury, one's smile may not be the most appealing. In this case, a porcelain veneer can be applied to cover the chip. In the same fashion, if a front tooth experiences a crack due to an injury, a porcelain veneer can quickly be applied to address it.

Address abnormalities

Some individuals have abnormalities that they cannot control when it comes to their smiles. Things like genetics or the way the oral cavity developed may play a role in certain abnormalities. For example, some teeth are shorter than others, resulting in an uneven smile. In other cases, there may be just one tooth in an arch that is set forward or back slightly, resulting in an uneven-looking smile.

While certain cosmetic issues as such may not seem like that big of a deal, they actually might be. Teeth that are too short in an arch can affect eating and one's bite, which can result in problems such as TMJ disorder or even sleep apnea, depending on the structure of the oral cavity.

Thankfully, there are ways to address these abnormalities. General dentists might recommend porcelain veneers to address the cosmetic aspect, while also ensuring that the form and function of the teeth are still in good shape. Porcelain veneers can be placed to lengthen teeth that are too short. They can also be applied when one single tooth is not in line with the other surrounding teeth. This can improve appearance and function at once.

Other uses for porcelain veneers

Porcelain veneers are great options for addressing cosmetic dentistry issues, however, they can also be used to restore teeth that are in bad shape. When cavities affect the front teeth, there may be unappealing results left behind after treatment. Porcelain veneers can address this and restore the tooth.

Ready to schedule your appointment?

When considering any sort of cosmetic dentistry procedure, it is a good idea to consult with a general dentist. General dentists can perform some cosmetic procedures, while still prioritizing the function of the teeth to ensure optimal oral health.

In the case of porcelain veneers, general dentists can evaluate any imperfection or abnormality at hand to determine the best approach. From there, any unanswered questions or concerns can be addressed, as well. To find out more or to get scheduled for an appointment, reach out today.

Request an appointment here: https://princewilliamdental.com or call Prince William Dental at (703) 662-8287 for an appointment in our Gainesville office.

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