Raleigh Porcelain Veneers – Cosmetic Dentistry Answers for People in Raleigh
You may have a friend or relative elsewhere who has mentioned getting porcelain veneers – or possibly seen and admired the results of someone in Raleigh who has porcelain veneers. If so, and you’re considering improving your own smile, this information may be helpful to you.
What are porcelain veneers?
Porcelain veneers are, much as their name implies, very thin layers of porcelain which are custom-fit and then permanently bonded to the fronts of your natural teeth.
Does “porcelain” mean that they’re really fragile?
Porcelain veneers are actually quite durable, but that doesn’t mean that some amount of precaution with your porcelain veneers isn’t in order. Your provider in Raleigh for porcelain veneers should explain to you in detail what types of precautions are appropriate. Most of the precautions are about not doing things that you shouldn’t be doing with your natural teeth, anyway! If you have a history of grinding your teeth (ask your Raleigh porcelain veneers provider if you do!), it might be a good idea to be fitted with a mouth guard to wear at night.
Can I get a porcelain veneer instead of a crown? What is the difference?
Simply stated, the difference in porcelain veneers and crowns is mostly about how much of the tooth is being “covered” and how much of the natural tooth can and is to be preserved. Think of the crown as being an “all-around” cover for the tooth, and a porcelain veneer as being a front-only treatment. When applying a porcelain veneer, much less (if any) of the tooth has to be removed to prepare for the treatment. The reality of the situation is that it’s not so much YOUR choice about which to use as it is an intelligent decision to be made by your provider of porcelain veneers in Raleigh. Generally speaking, if there is no actual or extensive damage to a tooth, you’re a good candidate for porcelain veneers, but there can be other factors to consider.
Why do most people get porcelain veneers?
Generally, porcelain veneers are used in cosmetic dentistry, but there are certainly cases where a porcelain veneer is a viable procedure for restorative and/or preventive dentistry. For example, you might be developing a crack in a tooth that needs to be repaired in some way. (Cosmetic bonding may or may not be an appropriate alternative to porcelain veneers in the case of cracks; porcelain veneers are generally more durable. Again, let your provider of porcelain veneers in Raleigh advise you on your options, as well as what he or she believes is best for you!)
Some of the most common uses of porcelain veneers in cosmetic dentistry are:
· To give uneven (short, narrow, oddly shaped) teeth a more desirable and uniform look.
· To “overcome” odd spacing between teeth without having to use braces, as long as the gaps aren’t too wide and the teeth are otherwise well-positioned. Sometimes, the spacing between teeth can get wider as we age.
· To improve the appearance of dull, discolored, or stained teeth. Some discoloration and stains cannot be corrected with bleaching procedures.
· To improve the appearance of badly worn teeth. Even if you once had a lovely smile, wear and tear on teeth and enamel can take a toll. That can mean your teeth look dull, or develop small cracks that are continually accentuated by staining from coffee, tea, and other things you drink or consume.
If you think you’re interested in porcelain veneers, a Raleigh dentist who is experienced in cosmetic dentistry can discuss with you the best cosmetic dentistry plan for your particular situation. A good cosmetic dentistry plan takes into consideration the condition of your teeth, your goals, and your budget – creating the best smile possible for your circumstances!
