Understanding Porcelain Veneers Candidacy
Are Porcelain Veneers the Best Option for You?
Porcelain veneers are a popular cosmetic dental procedure that can dramatically improve the appearance of your teeth. They’re custom-made, thin shells bonded to the front surface of your teeth to create a natural-looking, beautiful smile. If you’re considering porcelain veneers, it’s important to understand the process and whether or not you qualify for this cosmetic dentistry treatment.
Our Atlanta dentist breaks down the ideal porcelain veneers candidates below. To schedule a consultation, call our dental office at (404) 524-1981.
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-designed shells of dental porcelain that are bonded to the front of teeth to enhance their appearance. They are a popular cosmetic dentistry solution for patients who want to improve the look of their smile. Porcelain veneers can correct a variety of dental imperfections, including chips, cracks, gaps, discoloration, and uneven teeth. They are also a great option for patients who want to achieve a more symmetrical and balanced smile.
During the process, temporary veneers are used to give you a preview of your new smile while you wait for your custom, permanent veneers to be created. This allows you to visualize potential changes and provides a trial experience before the final application.
Do You Qualify for Porcelain Veneers?
Most patients qualify for this stunning cosmetic dental treatment. Veneers may be an option for you if you’re looking to conceal any of the following cosmetic dentistry imperfections:
- Stained or discolored teeth
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Misshapen or crooked teeth
- Gaps between your teeth
- Teeth that are too small or too large
- Worn-down teeth
Permanent veneers provide a long-term solution for these cosmetic issues.
Factors that Affect Candidacy
Overall Oral Health
Before getting porcelain veneers, you need to be in good oral health. If you have gum disease or other oral health problems, you may not be a good candidate for this treatment. We recommend addressing any oral health concerns before undergoing veneer treatment.
Tooth Structure
Your healthy teeth must have enough structure to support the veneers. If your natural teeth are severely damaged or decayed, you may need to consider other treatments, such as dental crowns or dental implants. You also need to have an adequate amount of tooth enamel to support the veneers.
Teeth Grinding
If you grind your teeth, you may not be a good candidate for porcelain veneers. Grinding can damage the veneers and cause them to break or become dislodged.
Bite alignment
If you have a misaligned bite, you may not be a good candidate for porcelain veneers. Veneers can change the shape and size of your teeth, but they cannot correct issues with your bite.
The Porcelain Veneers Process
The process of getting porcelain veneers typically takes two to three weeks and involves several steps.
Initial Consultation
The first step in the process is an initial consultation with a dentist. During this appointment, the dentist will examine the patient’s teeth and discuss their goals and expectations for the procedure. The dentist will also take impressions of the patient’s teeth and create a customized treatment plan.
Preparing Teeth for Veneers
Once the treatment plan is in place, the dentist will prepare the patient’s teeth for the veneers. This involves removing a small amount of tooth enamel from the front of the teeth to make room for the veneers. The dentist will also take impressions of the prepared teeth and send them to a dental lab where the veneers will be created.
Natural Teeth and Veneers
Porcelain veneers are designed to blend in seamlessly with surrounding teeth, creating a natural-looking smile. The veneers are custom-designed to match the shape, size, and color of the patient’s natural teeth, ensuring a beautiful and harmonious smile. With proper care and maintenance, porcelain veneers can last for many years, providing a long-lasting solution for patients who want to improve the look of their smile.
How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?
Porcelain veneers can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years, depending on the individual case. With proper care and maintenance, some porcelain veneers can even last up to 25 years. However, it’s important to note that the lifespan of porcelain veneers can vary from person to person and from case to case. Some people may need to replace their porcelain veneers sooner than others due to various factors.
Factors That Affect Longevity
Various factors affect how long veneers last, including:
- Oral Hygiene Habits: Good oral hygiene is essential for the longevity of veneers. Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease, which can cause the veneers to fail. Make sure you’re brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing regularly, and visiting your dentist biannually.
- Bite Forces: Teeth grinding and clenching can put excessive pressure on dental veneers, causing them to crack or chip. Wearing a nightguard can help protect the veneers from these forces.
- Diet: A diet high in sugar and acidic foods can cause the veneers to deteriorate over time. Limiting the consumption of these foods can help prolong the lifespan of porcelain veneers.
- Smoking: Smoking can stain and discolor porcelain veneers, reducing their lifespan.
- Accidents or Trauma: Accidents or trauma to the face can cause the porcelain veneers to crack or chip, requiring replacement.
- Quality of Materials: High-quality materials and proper placement techniques can significantly improve the longevity of porcelain veneers.
Porcelain Veneer Alternatives
If porcelain veneers aren’t quite right for you, there are a few other cosmetic alternatives to consider.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening can improve the brightness of your smile in just a few short visits to the dentist. Some dentists even offer in-office treatments as well as take-home whitening kits. However, teeth whitening may not be suitable for those with dental restorations, such as dental crowns.
Lumineers
Lumineers can be a great alternative for those looking for a less invasive option. Since they’re thinner than porcelain veneers, they don’t typically require any tooth enamel shaving or grinding. They’re placed directly on your teeth, giving you a renewed appearance.
Orthodontic Treatment
Some dental issues can’t be fixed with porcelain veneers. For those with severe misalignment or bite problems, you may need orthodontic treatment. Your dentist may recommend traditional braces or Invisalign to help you correct your smile alignment.
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are placed over damaged or decayed teeth to restore function and appearance. They’re designed to match the appearance of a natural tooth and can be made from various materials.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to replace or repair porcelain veneers if they become damaged?
Yes, in most cases, damaged porcelain veneers can be replaced or repaired. However, the extent of the damage will determine the appropriate course of action. Minor chips or cracks can often be repaired, while extensive damage may require replacing the veneer altogether.
Do veneers make your breath smell?
No, veneers shouldn’t cause your breath to smell. However, if your veneers aren’t cleaned and maintained properly, oral bacteria can build up on and around them, causing bad breath.
Can I get porcelain veneers if I have gum disease?
No, it’s important to have healthy gums before getting porcelain veneers. If you have gum disease, it’s essential to treat it and restore your gum health before considering veneers. Veneers require a stable foundation, and untreated gum disease can compromise the success of the treatment.
Are porcelain veneers a good solution for misaligned teeth?
While porcelain veneers can correct the appearance of minor misalignment, they are not designed to fix bite issues or severe misalignment. If your misalignment is significant, your dentist may recommend orthodontic treatment, such as braces or Invisalign, before considering veneers.
Determine Your Candidacy for Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers can be a great option for improving the appearance of your teeth. However, it’s important to consider whether or not you’re a good candidate for this treatment. To determine if porcelain veneers are the best treatment for you, contact our dentist in Atlanta today to schedule your appointment. Local dentists offer expertise in providing veneers in Atlanta, GA, ensuring quick and effective results with both aesthetic and functional benefits.