1. A Thin Veneer Makes a Wide Smile
Porcelain veneers are extremely thin sheets of porcelain bonded to the front of the tooth. While the veneers themselves are very fragile, when the porcelain bonds to the tooth it is very strong and rarely damages. Veneers are used widely in cosmetic dentistry to hide tooth damage, like chips or stains, and can also be used to give the appearance of straighter teeth. Porcelain veneers take on the appearance of the tooth and it's very difficult for anyone to tell that they're there. Lumineers are the most widely recognized brand of porcelain veneers, but there are several other brands that are equally as good.
2. Three Steps To a Healthy Smile
The procedure itself takes three trips to your dentist. During the first visit, your teeth will be buffed down to prepare them to accept the porcelain veneers, much like sanding a piece of furniture before you apply a coat of stain. A mold of your teeth will be taken during the second trip so the veneers can be custom made for your teeth. The veneers are bonded onto your teeth on the third visit to your dentist. Your dentist will do this using a special light that activates a dental cement to form a tight bond.
3. Veneers Are a Bright Investment
It is true that porcelain veneers cost more than traditional dental bonding, but there are other things to consider than just the initial expense. Porcelain veneers look more realistic than the material used in dental bonding for a more natural-looking smile. In addition, porcelain is inherently stain resistant and lasts longer than the average dental bonding. When you consider that you'll save on cleaning, and on replacing damaged dental bonds, the expense of porcelain veneers starts to look reasonable.
4. Find a Cosmetic Dentist With References
When you talk to your dentist about the possibilities of porcelain veneers, find out how much experience he has performing the procedure. You'll also want to make sure he's been properly trained, and has kept his skills up-to-date. Ask to see photographs of his past work and request to speak with patients he's done work for in the past. If your dentist acts as if he resents your questions, or isn't forthcoming with the information you request, find a dentist who is happy to demonstrate his qualifications.
5. The Power of a Healthy Smile
We see it daily, those perfect sparkling white smiles that grace every magazine and all of our televisions. Even the villains in the movies have beautiful white smiles; it's the social norm for everyone. Studies show that you'll be taken more seriously in business and you'll be found more attractive and personable in social settings when you have straight teeth and a healthy smile. In addition, those who have had porcelain veneers report feeling better about their smile as well as their overall physical appearance.
