FAQs About Porcelain Veneers in Silver Spring, MD

What is a porcelain veneer?

The veneer covers the surface of the tooth to improve its appearance. Made of porcelain, it adds a very thin layer to the tooth. Porcelain is strong and looks natural. It is permanent, actually bonded to the tooth.

What problems do porcelain veneers fix?

Porcelain veneers in Silver Springs, MD, help with a range of cosmetic problems, including:

• Uneven alignment or space between teeth: Do you have a gap between your teeth? Is one of your teeth slightly out of alignment? A porcelain veneer can successfully mask it. Though serious problems with spacing and alignment need orthodontics, minor types of adjustments can be handled successfully with a porcelain veneer.
• Shading: Do you have teeth that are yellowed or have major staining issues? If whitening can’t fix the problem, you can cover the tooth with a porcelain veneer in Silver Springs, MD. Because the veneers are custom made to match the rest of your teeth, your smile with look even and natural.
• Cracks, chips and size: As a person ages, his teeth tend to wear down, changing the size. Teeth also can develop cracks, chips or uneven edges. With veneers, all of these imperfections are covered up. With porcelain veneers, your smile looks bright and uniform. This is especially true if some of your teeth are too short. Veneers can make a major difference in your teeth and smile.

What is the process for getting veneers?

First the dentist checks your teeth to see if they are suitable for porcelain veneers in Silver Springs, MD. He will discuss the cosmetic dentistry options that are available to you and he might have X-rays taken.

Once you both agree on the veneers, he will gently remove a very tiny layer, about half a millimeter, from the tooth enamel, at the front of the tooth that will get the veneer. Some patients want local anesthetic for this process, while others don’t need it.

The dentist will then make a mold of your teeth. This is sent to a dental lab, where they make the custom veneers. The dentist will put temporary veneers on your teeth. Once the permanent veneers are ready, you come in for another appointment and the dentist bonds these to your teeth.

How will I know what they will look like, when I consider veneers?

The dentist can show you computer-generated images. This gives you a very accurate look at how your new veneers will change the look of your teeth and smile. The software uses a model of your teeth with the veneers, so you can tell what type of difference they make.

What are the pros and cons of veneers?

Pros:

• Porcelain veneers in Silver Springs, MD, give teeth a natural appearance.
• Porcelain resists stains.
• They are durable, lasting 5 to 10 years.

Cons:

• They need to be replaced at some point.
• They do not stop tooth decay.
• They are a bad choice for people who grind their teeth.