Ceramic Veneers
They say your smile is the window to your soul. When a smile is less than perfect because of things like cracked or chipped teeth, discoloration, and decay, it can make a person self-conscious about opening their mouth to others. At Salem Dental Arts our goal is to make all our patients happy and help them show their personality with their smiles by offering ceramic veneers as an excellent cosmetic option.
What Are Ceramic Veneers?
Anytime you are hiding your smile behind your hand or avoid smiling altogether we aren't happy. We want you to feel confident and stop thinking about how others perceive you. If you have any imperfection in your teeth that's preventing you from showing your smile, we have ceramic veneers available to treat minor flaws.
Ceramic veneers are very thin shells that cover the crowns of your teeth. We use veneers to hide minor imperfections and to prevent more damage in the future. Veneers are usually made of porcelain or resin material that will match the color and shape of your natural teeth and fit seamlessly in your mouth. Porcelain is the best option because we can match the sheen of the enamel better and is more durable, but either choice will give you excellent results. Porcelain can last more than 20-years when cared for properly.
When Are Ceramic Veneers Used
Our dentists use veneers to fix minor imperfections that can improve your smile relatively quickly and with slight discomfort. The most common reasons to use ceramic veneers are
• Teeth discoloration
• Chips and cracks
• Gaps between your teeth
• Uneven tooth shape
Getting Ceramic Veneers
Getting your ceramic veneers requires two visits to our office. On the first visit, we will prepare your teeth by using a conditioning material and removing some of the enamel. After we remove the enamel, we take an impression of your teeth, so the lab can create your new veneer using a guide to match your natural teeth color and shape. We may send you home with a temporary crown while you wait for your permanent veneer.
During the second visit, we place the veneer in permanently. Before cementing the veneer, our dentist will test it for color and shape. If you are happy with the match, we will bond the veneer in place permanently.
Taking Care Of Ceramic Veneers
With proper oral hygiene habits at home like brushing twice daily and flossing at least once a day, your veneers will last you many, many years. Doing this will help keep plaque buildup away and avoid gum disease and tooth decay which could cause receding gums. Don't skip your regular checkups so we can examine the veneers regularly.
Some things that can affect the lifespan of your veneers are:
• Smoking
• Drinking alcohol in excess
• Biting on your nails or other hard objects
• Poor oral hygiene habits
• Brushing too hard
• Eating hard candy or popcorn
By using common sense and caring for your ceramic veneers, you can have a smile you will be proud of.