Have you ever wondered how celebrities seem to have such perfectly white, straight, and beautifully shaped teeth? In many cases, the secret to that flawless “Hollywood smile” is a cosmetic dental procedure called porcelain veneers. Veneers are one of the most transformative and popular treatments in all of cosmetic dentistry. They are a versatile and long-lasting solution that can correct a wide range of cosmetic imperfections in a very short amount of time, giving you a complete smile makeover and a major boost in confidence.
What Exactly are Porcelain Veneers?
A porcelain veneer is a very thin, custom-made shell of high-quality, tooth-colored dental porcelain that is expertly crafted to be bonded to the front surface of a tooth. Think of it like a false fingernail for your tooth. Each veneer is a unique work of art, meticulously designed to match the desired shape, size, and color for your new smile. The porcelain material is incredibly strong and has a translucency that perfectly mimics the light-reflecting properties of natural tooth enamel, which is what makes the results look so stunningly realistic.
What Cosmetic Problems Can Veneers Fix?
Porcelain veneers are a fantastic solution for correcting a wide variety of common cosmetic dental issues, often all at the same time.
- Severe Stains and Discoloration: For teeth that have deep, intrinsic stains (from medications like tetracycline, for example) that do not respond to professional teeth whitening, veneers can provide a permanent whitening solution by simply covering the stained tooth with a brilliant white porcelain shell.
- Chips, Cracks, and Wear: Veneers can cover up and conceal minor chips, cracks, and the natural wear and tear that can make teeth look old and uneven.
- Gaps Between Teeth: Veneers can be custom-designed to be slightly wider than the natural teeth, effectively closing small to moderate gaps between the teeth without the need for orthodontics.
- Minor Crookedness and Misalignment: For teeth that are slightly crooked, rotated, or out of alignment, veneers can be used to create the appearance of a perfectly straight smile. This is why veneers are sometimes referred to as “instant orthodontics.”
- Misshapen or Unevenly Sized Teeth: Veneers can be used to reshape teeth that are too small, too large, or have an irregular shape, creating a more harmonious and symmetrical smile.
As the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), a leading resource for patients, explains, veneers are a popular and effective option for dramatically enhancing a smile.
The Veneer Process: A Journey in Two Visits
The process of getting porcelain veneers is typically completed in just two main appointments.
- The Preparation Visit: During your first visit, a very thin layer of enamel (typically less than a millimeter) is removed from the front surface of the teeth that will be receiving veneers. This is done to make room for the thickness of the porcelain so the final result doesn’t look bulky. An impression or a highly accurate digital scan of your prepared teeth is then taken. This is sent to a master dental laboratory where your custom veneers will be fabricated. You will leave this appointment with a set of beautiful, temporary veneers to protect your teeth while your permanent ones are being made.
- The Bonding Visit: A few weeks later, you will return to have your permanent veneers bonded in place. Your dentist will try in each veneer to ensure a perfect fit and color match. Then, using a strong dental adhesive, the veneers are permanently bonded to your teeth, creating a strong, durable, and beautiful new smile.
Your Redlands Dentist for Dental Veneers
A beautiful new smile with porcelain veneers can be a life-changing experience. To achieve a stunning and natural-looking result, you need a dentist with a keen artistic eye and a commitment to cosmetic excellence. For patients in the Redlands, CA area, Dr. Michelle Wang specializes in creating beautiful smiles. We invite you to learn more about dental veneers by scheduling a smile consultation at Michelle Wang DDS. Contact us today.