Dr. A of Philadelphia, PA is a dentist excited to offer patients ways to enhance their smiles. When imperfections impact the appearance of the smile, as well as a patient’s self-confidence, patients may feel as though they must hide their smile from others or avoid laughing or talking with their friends and family. However, patients who want to smile again can do so with new porcelain veneers by our dentist, Dr. A.
What are porcelain veneers?
Many imperfections of the smile can be improved with porcelain veneers. This is because porcelain veneers are aesthetic solutions that are created to bond over the front of the teeth. They disguise a wide range of issues including:
- Gaps between teeth
- Permanent staining
- Chips or breaks
- Unusual shape and size
- Misalignment
The veneers are very thin and are custom-made with porcelain. Porcelain closely mimics the appearance of natural tooth enamel to ensure the results are as beautiful as possible. The dentist creates the veneers to match the existing, so they not only look natural but as if they are just a part of the smile! Our team pays close attention to the appearance of restorations to ensure seamless integration.
Who is a candidate for porcelain veneers?
Most adult patients are great candidates for porcelain veneers. However, the smile needs to be healthy and free from decay and disease. During a consultation appointment, x-rays may be taken to evaluate the smile as a whole and determine if any treatments need to be done before placing porcelain veneers. It is important that patients understand that the natural structure underneath the veneer is still susceptible to developing issues such as decay, so continued evaluations twice a year are strongly encouraged.
Contact Us Today: (215) 624-1935
How is a veneer made and placed?
First, patients consult with their dentist to determine if they are candidates for the placement of porcelain veneers. Once patients have decided to move ahead with veneers, they will schedule a preparatory appointment. During this visit, the dentist will file down the front of the teeth being covered with veneers. This ensures that the veneer does not add unwanted bulk to the teeth. Impressions are made and used to create a veneer that fits perfectly over the treated tooth. Porcelain veneers are fabricated at a dental laboratory offsite using these impressions and specific instructions from Dr. A regarding the final size, shape, and color of the veneers. Patients return to the practice when the veneers are complete to have their new restorations bonded onto the teeth using unique dental bonding materials. The smile is then perfect!
How long do porcelain veneers last?
Most patients who take proper care of their smile after the placement of porcelain veneers can expect them to last ten years or longer. This requires patients to brush and floss after every meal, visit the dentist at least twice a year for evaluations, and to take great care in protecting their veneers from damage. This means avoiding chewing on hard objects such as ice and wearing a mouthguard at night if patients have bruxism. Bruxism can cause clenching and grinding during one’s sleep that can wear on the natural teeth as well as restorations, causing breakage and requiring replacement.
What are alternatives to porcelain veneers?
There are a few alternatives to porcelain veneers that patients can consider. Patients who want to address misaligned teeth or gaps between teeth may want to consider orthodontic treatment. Patients who have staining may wish to find out if professional teeth whitening services can assist. Additionally, any patients who have breakage or shaping concerns may also want to ask about the use of composite resin bonding, which can provide same-day results but will not last as long as a veneer. All these options can be discussed during a consultation with Dr. A.
Schedule an evaluation today
If you are ready to learn more about the use of porcelain veneers to enhance your smile, connect with Dr. A of Dental Arts Group today to discuss your needs. We are committed to helping new and existing patients in achieving the smiles of their dreams with today’s advanced cosmetic dentistry solutions. Book your visit by calling (215) 624-1935 and visiting at 7052-56 Frankford Avenue in Philadelphia, PA.