Cosmetic Dentistry

Porcelain Veneers Can Brighten Your Smile

© Loraine R. Degraff

Apr 16, 2009
Everyone wants a beautiful smile. Although all of us are not so naturally endowed, through cosmetic dentistry a bright, beautiful smile can be fabricated and maintained.

Dental veneers are a positive and creative method for solving cosmetic dental issues. These custom-designed shells can be made from porcelain or from resin composite material. Resin veneers are thinner and require less removal of the tooth surface before placement. They are also less expensive than their porcelain counterparts.

Porcelain veneers, however, resist stains better than resin veneers and more closely resemble the light-reflecting properties of natural teeth. Resin veneers and porcelain veneers can both be fabricated by a dental technician in a dental laboratory and can solve such dental issues as discolored teeth, cracked or chipped teeth or uneven teeth . Resin veneers can also be fabricated directly in the mouth. Depending on the condition of the teeth, the placement of dental veneers (whether fabricated in the laboratory or not) can be an extensive and expensive procedure.

Benefits of Porcelain Veneers

In addition to creating a pleasant smile, dental veneers can be used to protect the surface of a damaged tooth. Porcelain veneers are sometimes called "instant orthodontics" because they can be used to correct crooked teeth. In a very short time, your teeth can be as straight as if you had worn braces for two or three years. Once veneers are bonded into place, they are relatively strong and durable. This does not mean that the veneer-wearer can be abusive. The porcelain shells are thin and can damage or break if proper care is not given. They produce instant and spectacular results, however, and have several advantages even over dental crowns.

Porcelain Veneers vs. Teeth Whitening

Perhaps you are wondering what advantage dental veneers have over teeth whitening which many cosmetic dentists encourage as a simpler alternative procedure. Teeth whitening can, indeed, be less expensive and is a less complicated procedure. Many have been very satisfied with the results. It is not a permanent solution, however, and requires prolonged maintenance to keep up the effects. Dental veneers may be a more appropriate solution if you have a severe case of dull or discolored or even damaged teeth. Veneers also have the added benefits of longevity and a proven ability to enhance the appearance of the smile. Although veneers may be more costly and involve a more complicated procedure than teeth whitening, the results of a bright and radiant smile are typically well worth it. If you are looking for a cosmetic procedure with satisfying, long-lasting results, consider porcelain veneers.


The copyright of the article Cosmetic Dentistry in Oral Health is owned by Loraine R. Degraff. Permission to republish Cosmetic Dentistry in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.




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