Porcelain veneers in Ludlow

What is a Porcelain Veneer?

Made from wafer-thin ceramic layers, porcelain veneers work as a shield for your teeth, replacing tooth enamel by adhering to a tooth’s outer surface. They are equally as permanent as a filling or crown and can repair a host of aesthetic concerns:

• Spacing and alignment: Close that gap in your front teeth with veneers, which also can correct other issues in tooth alignment. This corrective treatment is perfect if you want to avoid braces or if your situation doesn’t require them.
• Color: Brighten your teeth, even those that are especially resistant to other whitening regimens. Veneers are available in a variety of natural-looking colors, so you can match the shade of your teeth or make them a step or two whiter.
• Size and shape: Veneers can make a chipped tooth look brand new or lengthen teeth that have been shortened because of tooth grinding, also called bruxism. And, if you’ve been concerned your teeth looked 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 Ludlow can show you what you’ll look like with veneers before your treatment begins. Before applying your veneers, our dentist will take a mold of your teeth to ensure a proper and comfortable fit. Depending on the brand of veneers used, a small portion of your tooth enamel may need to be removed before application. Once they’ve bonded to your teeth, you won’t need to worry about the veneers staining or shifting while you eat or talk. Just be prepared to say cheese for photos.

How Is a Veneer Different from a Crown?

Crowns and veneers are made from material that mimic tooth enamel and bond to your natural teeth. Both also will change the shape, size, color, and appearance of your teeth and smile.

However, both corrective treatments address different concerns. Crowns structurally repair a tooth that has been damaged by trauma, grinding, clenching, decay, or age. Veneers, on the other hand, cover small imperfections with your teeth and the treatment is considered a cosmetic dental procedure. A veneer bonds to the front surface of your tooth, whereas a crown (also known as a cap) covers your whole tooth down to the gum line. Installing a crown does require removing exterior tooth enamel, but once in place, it strengthens the underlying tooth. And because crowns will withstand the biting force between your molars, they are favored to treat structural and cosmetic issues affecting those teeth.

How Long Do Veneers Last?

Veneers are designed to be a permanent fix in enhancing the beauty of your teeth and smile. Their durability varies depending upon daily care, your lifestyle, and the brand of veneers used. They should last for decades when brushed and flossed daily.

What Are Lumineers^®?

Lumineers^® are a specific brand of veneer that is ultra-thin and especially translucent. The brand is unique in that they require little to no reduction in the surface enamel of your natural tooth, yet they remain very durable. Lumineers are expected to last more than 20 years and like other types of veneers, they look natural, are comfortable, fit snugly, and resist staining.

How Do I Care For Veneers?

If your veneers are covering teeth worn down from grinding and clenching, our dentist likely will recommend you wear a custom night guard to protect your improved smile. Otherwise, care for your porcelain veneers as you would your natural teeth with brushing and flossing them gently every day.

Keep in mind that as durable as veneers are, they are not invincible. If your front teeth are among those treated with veneers, it’s wise to heed your dentist’s advice to avoid biting into hard food such as candy apples, or opening packages with your teeth.

Schedule a Consultation for Veneers in Ludlow Today

If you have additional questions about veneers or think they might be your best option for a new smile, we are here to help. Our caring staff in Ludlow is ready to schedule an appointment to discuss concerns how veneers can fit into your dental care.