If you have severely discolored teeth that have not responded to teeth whitening treatment, veneers might be a good choice to restore your teeth to their original color. This cosmetic treatment is relatively non-invasive, and can produce excellent results for teeth suffering from certain types of staining and some forms of damage.
What Veneers Can Do
Veneers are a versatile treatment that can treat a variety of cosmetic issues with your front teeth. In the case of staining, a veneer can cover the front surface of the discolored tooth. Because the veneer is custom-made and color-matched, it is virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth. In cases of intrinsic discoloration, which generally cannot be treated with traditional whitening, a veneer is one of the most effective, least invasive treatments available. [pullquote]If you have severely discolored teeth that have not responded to teeth whitening treatment, veneers might be a good choice to restore your teeth to their original color. [/pullquote]
In addition to covering discoloration, a veneer can be used to treat other problems, including:
- Surface damage such as pits, chips, or cracks
- Minor misalignment
- Small gaps between the teeth
This type of treatment is also sometimes used in conjunction with other approaches to alleviate symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorder. Addition of a veneer can slightly shift the alignment of the teeth to help also adjust the jaw alignment.
How Veneers Work
A veneer is made of very thin porcelain that is custom-made to fit the surface of your tooth. They are placed in two stages. In the first stage, your teeth are prepared for the new restoration and your cosmetic dentist makes molds. These molds are used to make your permanent veneers. Temporaries are placed on your teeth to protect them during the few days it takes to manufacture the permanent restorations. When they arrive, you’ll see your cosmetic dentist again to have them permanently cemented to your teeth.
Caring for your teeth after treatment involves regular, everyday brushing as flossing as well as regular visits to the dentist. Be sure to avoid foods and beverages that might stain your new smile, because porcelain does not respond to whitening the way natural enamel does.
Call Kemp & Borovac Dentistry for more information about veneers today.