Three Dental Imperfections Improved with Porcelain Veneers

Cracked, chipped, gapped, misshapen, and discolored teeth can present major inconveniences for individuals who wish to brighten their natural smile and enhance their oral health. At Leon Springs Dental Center, Dr. Carolyn B. Walker works with patients throughout San Antonio, TX to help meet their unique restorative dental care needs. One effective, simple solution to concealing damaged or stained teeth is being fitted for tailored porcelain veneers.

What are porcelain veneers?

Porcelain veneers are medical-grade shells that cup over the front teeth to conceal damaged or discolored teeth while adding a natural, appealing shape to improve the overall smile. Each patient is specifically fitted for their own veneers by size and color so that results look well-fitted and genuine. At Leon Springs Dental Center, Dr. Walker will assess your teeth and overall oral health during an initial consultation to determine if porcelain veneers are the right treatment approach for you and your personal dental goals.

Three dental imperfections improved with porcelain veneers

While porcelain veneers present men and women with numerous benefits, there are three dental imperfections that can be easily improved, including:

• Misshapen or abnormally shaped teeth
• Stained or discolored teeth
• Chipped or cracked teeth

Dental imperfections may be caused by genetics, oral trauma, lifestyle choices, or a combination of factors. Dr. Walker can evaluate the root cause of each imperfection to create your unique restorative dental plan.

Am I an ideal candidate for porcelain veneers?

You may be a viable candidate for porcelain veneers if you:

• Have stained or discolored teeth
• Have chipped, cracked, or misshapen teeth
• Have gapped teeth
• Have a “gummy” smile
• Are in good, general health
• Have good oral health

Porcelain veneers require enough surface area to adequately bond to the front teeth. Patients with active oral infections or tooth decay may have to resolve these issues prior to receiving their porcelain veneers. Individuals with specific medical conditions may not qualify for porcelain veneers or may be better suited for alternative restorative dental treatments.

Are porcelain veneers permanent?

Porcelain veneers are considered a long-lasting restorative dental service. Prior to adhering each shell to the tooth, a strip of enamel is removed to enhance the fit for long-term use. In some cases, porcelain veneers can be removed or replaced in the future if needed, but the enamel is stripped away.

How the treatment process works

Porcelain veneers are fitted to each patient during scheduled appointments at Leon Springs Dental Center. During the first visit, a small amount of enamel is stripped from each tooth being fitted for a veneer. The patient participates in a digital x-ray, and the results are sent to a laboratory to fabricate custom-made porcelain veneers. While waiting for their veneers, patients are typically sent home with temporary veneers to protect the exposed teeth. During the final appointment, Dr. Walker will carefully adhere the porcelain veneers to the teeth with a strong bonding agent. Once the porcelain veneers are fitted and thoroughly inspected, the patient may return home and resume normal daily activities.

Can I eat and drink after receiving my porcelain veneers?

Eating and drinking are permitted almost immediately after receiving new porcelain veneers. However, patients should generally avoid crunchy, chewy, sticky, and hard foods for the first few days to allow the veneers to settle into their natural position. Patients may notice temporary sensitivity to cold and hot temperatures, which should resolve within a couple of weeks.

How long do porcelain veneers last?

With the right lifestyle choices and dental hygiene practices, porcelain veneers can potentially last for many years. Consider applying the following tips at home to make the most out of your new smile:

• Avoid eating hard, chewy, sticky, or crunchy foods
• Limit sugar intake
• Eat nutritious meals and stay hydrated
• Brush and floss twice daily
• Use mouth rinse regularly to remove plaque buildup
• Attend regular dental checkups and routine cleanings

Learn more about improving your smile with porcelain veneers

If you reside in or near San Antonio, TX, and would like to learn more about ways to restore your smile and improve your oral health, contact us at Leon Springs Dental Center and schedule a consultation today. Carolyn B. Walker, DDS will work with you, assess your teeth, and determine if porcelain veneers are the right restorative dental approach for you.