Porcelain veneers in Northampton

What is a Porcelain Veneer?

Composed of wafer-thin ceramic layers, veneers work as a buffer for your teeth, replacing tooth enamel by bonding to a tooth’s outer surface. They are just as permanent as a filling or crown and can repair a variety of aesthetic concerns:

• Spacing and alignment: Veneers can close a gap in your teeth and make other alterations in tooth alignment. Veneers are a straightforward corrective treatment if you don’t want to braces or if your situation doesn’t quite require them.
• Color: Your teeth can be whiter, even teeth especially resistant to other whitening regimens. Veneers come in a variety of natural colors, so you can match the shade of your teeth or make them a step or two brighter.
• Size and shape: A chipped tooth can look brand new thanks to a veneer. The treatment also can lengthen teeth that have been shortened due to tooth grinding (also called bruxism}. And, if you have thought 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 Northampton can show you what you’ll look like with veneers before your treatment begins. Before your veneers are applied, the dentist will make a mold of your teeth to ensure a custom fit. Depending on the brand of veneers recommended, a minute portion of the tooth enamel may be removed before they are adhered to your teeth. Once attached, you’ll soon find the veneers won’t stain or shift while you eat or talk. Just be prepared to smile more.

How Is a Veneer Different from a Crown?

Veneers and crowns are made from material that mimic your tooth enamel and are affixed to your natural teeth. Both will change the shape, size, color, and appearance of your teeth.

Both corrective treatments address different dental concerns. Veneers cover small imperfections and the treatment is considered a cosmetic dental procedure. Crowns structurally repair a tooth that has been compromised by trauma, grinding, clenching, decay, or age. A veneer is bonded only to the front surface of your tooth and a crown (also called a cap) covers your tooth down to the gums. Placing a crown does involve removing exterior tooth enamel, but once set, it strengthens the tooth underneath. And because crowns will withstand the biting force between your molars, they are preferred to treat structural and cosmetic issues affecting those teeth.

How Long Do Veneers Last?

Veneers are designed to be a long-term fix for enhancing your teeth and smile. Although durability varies depending upon daily care, lifestyle, and the brand of veneers used, veneers should last decades when regularly brushed and flossed.

What Are Lumineers^®?

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

How Do I Care For Veneers?

If your veneers are covering teeth worn from bruxism (clenching or grinding), our dentist likely will suggest you wear a custom-made night guard to protect your improved smile. Otherwise, care for your porcelain veneers as you would your natural teeth: brushing and flossing them gently every day.

Keep in mind that as durable as veneers can be, they cannot weather everything. If your front teeth have bonded veneers it is recommended you avoid biting into hard food such as candy apples, or opening packages with your teeth.

Schedule a Consultation for Veneers in Northampton Today

If you have more questions about veneers or are considering if they may be your best option, we are here to help. Our caring staff in Northampton is ready to schedule an appointment for you to discuss concerns about using veneers and how they can fit into your dental care.