Porcelain veneers for that perfect smile

With the increasing popularity of porcelain veneers I still get questions all the time about what they are and how they work.
Porcelain veneers are thin porcelain shells made up of various enamel like materials that are bonded to the front of a tooth ( think refaced kitchen cabinets).Porcelain veneers can correct color, shape, size, wear, chips, and cover large older stained fillings.Benefits of veneers are the “instant orthodontic” straightening of teeth and the natural cosmetic look. There are some limitations to who are good candidates, severe crowding or spaces that are too large sometimes require cosmetic tooth movement first.
Porcelain veneers can last a long time and require normal hygiene and routine dental checkups for best long term results. There are various types of veneers that are made out of various types of ceramics/porcelains each with pros and cons based on a patients particular case. the most notable veneers are the LUMINEERS brand due to the high advertising to consumers. These veneers use no preparation- minimal preparation technique, where little to no alterations to your tooth are made prior to having veneers made. In my opinion this technique is performed more often than they should – only about 3-5% of patients are actually ideal candidates for the no prep technique. The most successful and cosmetic in my opinion are the standard veneer preparation technique where the amount equal to the thickness of the veneers is removed and then temporary veneers are worn for about 3 weeks prior to insert of permanent veneers. The gum health is much better with the teeth being prepared so that there is not a porcelain “ledge” sticking out that catch plaque and cause gum irritation. So if you would like a gorgeous smile, it can only be a few weeks away. A consult to discuss if you are a candidate for the type of veneers to best suit your needs is the first step.