Porcelain veneers in Westfield

What is a Porcelain Veneer?

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

• Spacing and alignment: Veneers can close that gap between your front teeth and address other issues in tooth alignment. The corrective procedure is also good if you want to avoid braces or it your situation doesn’t call for them.
• Color: Brighten your teeth, even those stubborn to other whitening regimens. Veneers are available in a variety of natural-looking colors, so you can match to the shade of your teeth or take them a step or two brighter.
• Size and shape: A chipped tooth can look like new and teeth shortened by grinding (also called bruxism) can be lengthened by veneers. And, if you’ve been concerned your teeth are too square, too round, too big, or too small, veneers can alter their shape of your teeth to better complement your features.

Our dentist in Westfield can show you what you’ll look like with veneers before your treatment begins. Before affixing the veneers, our dentist will make a mold of your teeth to ensure a comfortable and snug fit. Depending on the brand of veneers used, a portion of your tooth enamel may be removed before application. And 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 those family photos.

How Is a Veneer Different from a Crown?

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

The two corrective dental treatments address different concerns. Crowns structurally fixes a tooth that has been damaged by trauma, grinding, clenching, decay, or age. Veneers, on the other hand, cover small imperfections with your teeth. Veneers are considered a cosmetic dental procedure. The veneer bonds to the front surface of your tooth, whereas a crown (also called a cap) covers your whole tooth down to the gum. Placing a crown requires removing tooth enamel, but once the cap is on it strengthens the underlying tooth. And because crowns can withstand the biting force between your molars, they are the favored treatment for structural and cosmetic issues affecting molars.

How Long Do Veneers Last?

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

What Are Lumineers^®?

Lumineers^® are a particular brand of veneer that is ultra-thin and translucent. The brand is unique in that they require little to no reduction in the enamel of your natural tooth, yet they remain durable. Lumineers are designed to last more than 20 years and similar to other brands, they look natural, fit snugly, are comfortable and resist staining.

How Do I Care For Veneers?

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

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

Schedule a Consultation for Veneers in Westfield Today

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