Porcelain Veneers in Mishawaka

What is a Porcelain Veneer?

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

• Spacing and alignment: Veneers can close a gap in your front teeth and make other adjustments in tooth alignment. Veneers are a straightforward corrective treatment if you want to avoid braces or if your situation doesn’t quite require them.
• Color: Whiten your teeth, even those that are especially resistant to other whitening regimens. Veneers come in a variety of natural-looking colors, so you can match the shade of your teeth or make them a step or two brighter.
• Size and shape: Veneers can make a chipped tooth look brand new or 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 even alter the shape of your teeth to complement your features.

Our dentist in Mishawaka can show you what you’ll look like with veneers before your treatment begins. Before applying your veneers, the dentist will make a mold of your teeth to ensure a proper and comfortable fit. Depending on the brand of veneers used a small portion of the tooth enamel may be removed before they are adhered in place. Once they have bonded, you won’t need to worry about the veneers staining or shifting while you eat or talk. Just be prepared to smile wide.

How Is a Veneer Different from a Crown?

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

However, both corrective treatments address different concerns. Veneers cover small imperfections and the treatment is considered a cosmetic dental procedure. Crowns, on the other hand, 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 whereas a crown (sometimes called a cap) covers your whole tooth down to the gum. Installing a crown does involve removing exterior tooth enamel, but once in place, it strengthens the tooth underneath. And because crowns will withstand the strong 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 forever fix for enhancing the beauty of your teeth and smile. Although durability varies depending upon daily care, lifestyle, and the brand of veneers used, they should last for decades when regularly brushed and flossed.

What Are Lumineers^®?

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

How Do I Care For Veneers?

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

Keep in mind that as durable as veneers can be, they are not invincible. If your front teeth have bonded veneers you will be advised to avoid biting hard food such as candy apples, or opening packages with your teeth.

Schedule a Consultation for Veneers in Mishawaka Today

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