Porcelain veneers in Belchertown, MA

What is a Porcelain Veneer?

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

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

Our dentist in Belchertown can show you what you’ll look like with veneers before your treatment starts. Before veneer application, the dentist will take a mold of your teeth to ensure a custom, comfortable fit. Depending on the type of veneers used, a portion of your tooth enamel might be removed before your veneers are placed. Once they’re affixed, you won’t have to worry about them being stained or shifting while you talk or eat. Enjoy your new smile!

How Is a Veneer Different from a Crown?

Veneers and crowns are made from materials that emulate tooth enamel and are attached to the natural teeth. Both can change the shape, color, size, and overall appearance of your teeth.

However, they address different issues. Veneers hide small imperfections and the treatment is considered a cosmetic dental procedure. Crowns structurally correct a tooth that has been damaged by trauma, clenching, grinding, decay, or age. A veneer is applied only to the front of a tooth whereas a crown (oftentimes called a cap) covers the entire tooth. Installing a crown involves removing more of your exterior tooth enamel, but once in place, it helps strengthen the underlying tooth. Because crowns can withstand the stronger biting force between your molars, they are preferred to treat structural and cosmetic issues affecting your molars.

How Long Do Veneers Last?

Veneers are designed to be a long-wearing option that augments the beauty of your teeth. Although their durability varies depending upon care, your 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 brand of veneers that are very thin and highly translucent. They are unique because they require little to no reduction in the enamel of your natural tooth, yet they’re also highly durable. Lumineers are known to last more than 20 years and like other brands, they look natural, feel comfortable, fit snugly, and resist staining.

How Do I Care For Veneers?

If your veneers cover 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, it’s wise to avoid biting into hard foods such as candy apples, or opening packages with those teeth.

Schedule a Consultation for Veneers in Belchertown Today

If you have additional questions about veneers or think they might be right choice for you, we’re here to help. Our caring staff in Belchertown 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.