Versatility of Porcelain Veneers

Veneers, one of the most innovative cosmetic dentistry restoration options, improve the way your teeth look by covering up small surface flaws. Portage, MI, dentist, Dr. Richard Oppenlander, explains how you can transform your smile with veneers.

Veneers address multiple problems

Veneers hide imperfections by adding a thin layer of porcelain to your teeth. As you can imagine, veneers must be very strong to stand up to normal wear and tear. Porcelain, one of the common materials used to create veneers, is extremely tough and reflects light the same way tooth enamel does. Veneers are only attached to the fronts of teeth, the area in which flaws are most noticeable.

Veneers are often recommended if you don't like the shape of a tooth. They're a good choice if a tooth is crooked, or if you feel that your teeth are too rounded or too square. Very crooked teeth will require orthodontic treatment, but if the problem is fairly mild, you may benefit from a veneer.

Slight damage to your teeth can also be concealed with veneers. Tiny cracks or chips can form in teeth if you bump your mouth or bite into hard foods or objects. Covering up these flaws with a thin layer of porcelain makes them vanish.

Teeth can become shorter due to frequent nighttime grinding. Although this might sound like a minor problem, even small changes in the length of your teeth can totally change your smile. Veneers offer a simple way to restore the length of your teeth.

Do you have a gap between your front teeth? Although you could take advantage of composite bonding to fill the gap, veneers last longer. They're also used to hide teeth that have become discolored and offer a very effective, long-lasting way to whiten teeth.

When you visit his Portage office, Dr. Oppenlander can show you how your new veneers will look by applying wax models to your teeth. Once you're happy with the look, he'll send an impression of your mouth to the dental laboratory that will make the permanent veneers. After the veneers are attached to your teeth with dental cement, you'll need to avoid eating very hard foods, but you won't have any other restrictions.

Would you like to improve your smile with veneers? Call Portage, MI, dentist, Dr. Richard Oppenlander, at (269) 327-9332 to schedule an appointment.