Veneering is a cosmetic dentistry procedure that does not significantly modify the tooth structure. Porcelain dental veneers are the ideal option if you want to permanently rectify minor problems such as stains or discolorations that cannot be eliminated by teeth whitening, cracks, chips and fractures on the teeth surface, small gaps between teeth etc.

What are porcelain veneers?
Porcelain veneers are wafer-thin porcelain shells that are bonded to the enamel of your teeth. They are thin and translucent and are just perfect for hiding all surface imperfections and flaws.

Porcelain veneers have two layers of lamination – an outer layer and an inner layer. The outer layer is made of stain-resistant, chemical-resistant and erosion-resistant material and the inner layer is of a material that bonds to the enamel surface of the tooth and is also permanently attached to the outer layer.

The outer laminate layer is usually a cross-linked polymer and various vitreous materials including ceramic and glass. The inner layer is a noncross-linked polymer or a porous and cellular ceramic, glass or vitreous substance.

With the help of a special color systems, porcelain veneers can be selected to match the exact shade of your natural teeth. you and your dentist can choose the exact color that you need to create a new smile for you. Modern porcelain veneers appear exactly like natural teeth. They are virtually indistinguishable from the rest of the teeth and can blend in.

When do you need to use porcelain veneers?
Your dentist will be the best person to advise whether you are the best candidate for porcelain dental veneers. Typically, veneers are used to correct flaws that are present and limited to the surface of the teeth. They cover up all minor chips and cracks. If the problem is deeper, and has affected the inner dental chamber or if the tooth has decayed, that problem needs to be addressed first before covering it up with dental veneers.

Veneers can make crooked and uneven teeth appear straight. If you have small gaps between your teeth, veneers can correct them. Old and ugly fittings, permanently stained or discolored teeth that cannot be corrected by teeth whitening etc. can all be fixed using veneers.

This versatile treatment option has many practical applications.

Tips for caring for your dental veneers

Veneers usually last a very long time with regular dental care. However, there are certain things you can do to make the luster last longer.

• Be careful about the intake of food and beverages that contain staining pigments. Coffee, tea, soy, wine etc. are known to stain teeth.
• If you have veneers on your teeth, you have one more reason to quit smoking – nicotine stains can really render your veneers dull and lackluster.
• Also avoid biting into hard food items or opening bottle caps with your teeth.

Dental veneers can significantly improve the appearance of your smile. This quick and easy procedure is preferred by many celebrities and movie stars. Dental veneers are not so expensive that only the rich and famous can afford them. They are well within the reach of the common man.

To know more about dental veneers, get in touch with Santa Monica dentist.