Even patients with the healthiest of teeth can be disappointed in the appearance of their smile. Over the years, advances in cosmetic dentistry have made it possible for patients to transform their smile into one they love. Porcelain veneers have become a great solution to hide just about any cosmetic issue. This versatile treatment can make subtle or dramatic changes by addressing:
- Worn down teeth
- Broken or chipped teeth
- Stained or yellowed teeth
- Stained, unsightly or washed-out fillings
- Misshapen or crooked teeth
- Gaps between teeth
The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry offers porcelain veneers to patients from Highland Park, IL. Dr. Abraham Stein and Dr. Zachary Weiss are highly trained cosmetic dentists who want to help patients who lack confidence in their smile.
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
A porcelain veneer is a thin, shell-like layer of porcelain that is custom made to mold right on to the front of a tooth. It is permanently bonded to the tooth to enhance its aesthetics and function. They are very durable and are colored matched to blend in with your smile. Even though they will resemble natural teeth, they are not susceptible to staining from things such as coffee, tea, or tobacco. For the best aesthetic results, it is recommended to have an equal number of veneers. Porcelain veneers are considered a permanent restoration since a very small amount of tooth enamel will need to be removed to accommodate them.
Porcelain Veneer Process
You will first meet with Dr. Stein or Dr. Weiss to determine if porcelain veneers are the right treatment for you. This will include a physical exam of the entire mouth including the teeth, gums, and jaw joints.
During your next appointment, your dentist will prepare your teeth by removing a minimal amount of tooth surface. Removing as small amount of tooth structure will create space on the surface for the placement of the teeth veneers. Your dentist will then take a high quality digital impression of your teeth that will be used to fabricate your custom veneers in a dental laboratory. They will also do a shade analysis to ensure the veneers will blend in with the rest of your teeth.
Once the final porcelain veneers arrive from the dental laboratory, Dr. Stein or Dr. Weiss will check them for fit and color. Once you are satisfied with the way they look, the veneers will then be permanently bonded to your teeth.
How to Care for Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are designed to last awhile and with proper care and maintenance, they can last many years. Caring for them is similar to caring for your natural teeth. You should follow a typical oral hygiene routine that includes regular brushing and flossing. It is important to visit our Highland Park, IL area dentist office every six months for regular checkups.
To learn more about porcelain veneers and determine if they are the right treatment for you, call 847-750-3125 or request an appointment online.