Porcelain veneers in Shelton

What is a Porcelain Veneer?

Composed of thin ceramic layers, porcelain veneers basically work like a shield for your teeth, replacing tooth enamel by adhering to a tooth’s outer surface. They are as permanent as a crown or filling and can correct a host of aesthetic issues:

• Spacing and alignment:  Close a gap in your teeth and make other minor adjustments in tooth alignment with our veneers. Veneers are a fairly simple corrective treatment if you don’t want braces or if your situation doesn’t quite require them.
• Color:  Whiten your teeth, even the ones especially resistant to other whitening treatments. Veneers are available in a variety of natural shades, so you can match the color to your teeth or take them a step or two brighter.
• Size and shape:  Use veneers to make chipped teeth look practically new again or lengthen teeth that have been shortened because of tooth grinding (also called bruxism}. And, if you’ve always thought your teeth looked are too square, too round, too big, or too small, veneers can alter the shape of your teeth to better complement your features.

Our dentist in Shelton can show you what you’ll look like with veneers before your treatment begins. Prior to applying your veneers, the dentist will take a mold of your teeth to ensure a comfortable, custom fit. Depending on the type of veneers recommended, a portion of your tooth enamel may be removed before your veneers are applied. Once they’re affixed, you won’t need to worry about them staining or shifting while you talk or eat. Just enjoy your brighter smile.

How Is a Veneer Different from a Crown?

Veneers and crowns are made from substances that mimic  enamel and are attached to the natural teeth. Both also will change the shape, color, size, and overall appearance of your teeth.

However, each appliance addresses different concerns. Veneers hide minor imperfections and are considered a cosmetic procedure. Crowns, on the other hand, repair a tooth that has been damaged by trauma, clenching, grinding, decay, or age. A veneer is applied to the front of your tooth whereas a crown (also known as a called a cap) covers an entire tooth. Installing a crown involves removing your exterior tooth enamel, but once in place, it helps strengthen the underlying tooth. Because crowns will withstand the strong biting force between your molars, they are preferred to treat structural and cosmetic issues affecting your those teeth.

How Long Do Veneers Last?

Veneers are designed to be a long-wearing fix for enhancing the beauty of your teeth and ultimately your smile. Although their durability varies depending upon proper care, lifestyle, and the brand of veneers used, they should last for decades if you brush and floss them daily.

What Are Lumineers^®?

Lumineers^® are a particular brand of veneers that are ultra-thin and very translucent. They are unique because they require little to no reduction in the surface enamel of your natural tooth, yet they are also highly durable. Lumineers are known to last more than 20 years and like other brands, they look natural, are comfortable, fit snugly, and resist staining.

How Do I Care For Veneers?

If your veneers are covering teeth worn from clenching or grinding, our dentist likely will recommend you wear a custom night guard to protect your new smile. Otherwise, care for your porcelain veneers as you would your natural teeth: by brushing and flossing them each day.

Keep in mind that as durable as veneers can be, they aren’t invincible. If you have veneers on your front teeth, you will be advised to avoid biting into hard foods such as candy apples, or opening packages with those teeth.

Schedule a Consultation for Veneers in Shelton Today

If you have additional questions about veneers or think they might be the best choice for you, we are here to help. Our caring staff in Shelton is eager to set up an appointment for you to discuss any concerns about using veneers and how they can fit into your dental care.