What are porcelain veneers?
Porcelain veneers are thin shells of porcelain that are bonded to the front surface of teeth changing their color, shape, size, or length. Veneers are also used to treat gummy smile.
Dental veneers can be made from porcelain or from resin composite materials. Porcelain veneers resist stains better than resin veneers and better mimic the light reflecting properties of natural teeth. Dr. Elseweifi uses Edelweiss composite veneers from ultradent.
Veneers can be used to correct the facing of existing crowns and bridges. In these cases, a composite veneer is bonded to the outside of the crown or bridge to replace the broken porcelain or to change the color of existing crowns. After an exam and consultation, Dr. Elseweifi will tell you the best choice for your teeth; veneers, crowns, or bonding.
Dental veneers are very technique sensitive and should be done by a cosmetic dentist with experience in different types of veneers and veneer bonding. The bond layer for veneers is essential for cosmetic perfection, color match, and strength of the veneer.
Conditions treated by porcelain veneers
- Discolored teeth
- Worn down teeth
- Chipped or broken teeth
- Misaligned teeth
- Irregularly shaped teeth
- Spaced teeth
Advantages of porcelain veneers
Porcelain veneers have outstanding cosmetic qualities. They are individually designed, therefore, match the color, form, and translucency of adjacent teeth.
- Provide natural tooth appearance.
- Gum tissue tolerates porcelain well.
- Porcelain is stain resistant.
- Veneers are more conservative than crowns.
Disadvantages of porcelain veneers
Veneers are more expensive than composite resin bonding.
Broken porcelain veneers cannot be repaired.
- Teeth prepared for veneers may become more sensitive.
Veneers Vs Whitening?
Veneers can mask internal stains and discolorations that are resistant to teeth whitening. In addition, while teeth can discolor after teeth whitening, porcelain veneers never discolor. Porcelain veneers can be made super white. On the other hand, veneers are less conservative as they require removal of tooth enamel.
No-prep veneers require minimal or no preparation of tooth enamel. However, you should consult with an experienced cosmetic dentist before making such choice. Most of the time, teeth require minimal preparation for veneers to achieve perfect cosmetic results. If not done correctly, teeth would look very bulky and will interfere with proper hygiene. No-prep veneers are ideal for patients with small or spaced teeth. They are not indicated for patients with crowded teeth.
Dr. Elseweifi received extensive training in cosmetic dentistry by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and at Louisiana State University. He spent thousands of hours in advanced training in cosmetic and restorative dentistry.
Call our office to schedule a free consultation.