The demand for a beautifully perfect smile is at an all time high. Patients are constantly looking for ways to improve their smile and improve their confidence. Here at Andrew Lee Dentistry, we offer long term solutions for fixing the aesthetics of your smile.
Porcelain Veneers
A veneer is a very thin layer of tooth coloured porcelain that is bonded to the front surface of your existing tooth. The thickness may be as thin as 0.3mm and can be compared to the same thickness of a contact lens. Veneers are highly resistant to stains and are perfect for patients wanting to maintain a brighter smile. You can drink tea, coffee and other coloured food and drinks that may cause stains to natural teeth as long as you care for your veneers well.
You can have just one veneer to cover a specific aesthetic flaw or you can opt for a full set, known as a smile makeover. Based on the shape of your natural teeth and the shape of your face and mouth, we can design the veneers to improve the overall appearance of your smile.
Porcelain veneers are one of the natural-looking and effective cosmetic dentistry procedures available. Porcelain veneers can be used for extreme smile makeovers and are a great alternative to dental crowns. The veneers are made of a customised, thin porcelian that slides over your existing teeth. They can mas chips, correct misalignment issues, conceal stains and create a perfect and even smile.
Veneers vs Crowns
Veneers are an excellent alternative to crowns. They provide a more conservative approach to changing a tooth’s colour, shape or size. Porcelain veneers are used to mask defects that have happened to your teeth as a result of an injury, have been stained by tetracycline or unwanted results from a root canal procedure. Porcelain veneers last for many years. The technique has shown remarkable longevity when properly performed by highly qualified cosmetic dentists.
How Much Do Porcelain Veneers Cost?
If you have decided you would like to opt for veneers to improve the appearance of your smile, you should begin by booking a consultation with your dentist. Here, your dentist will examine your teeth and decide if this is a suitable treatment for your desired results. Your dentist will be able to take measurements of your teeth and explain to you exactly how the veneers can improve your smile. Cost of treatments can be discussed with your dentist here.
Do Porcelain Veneers Stain?
As mentioned above, veneers are more resistant to stains than natural teeth. However, this is entirely dependent on how well you care for and clean your teeth and veneers. Just like natural teeth, veneers can become discoloured overtime if plaque is left to build up on the surface.
How to Clean Porcelain Veneers
To clean your ceramic veneers we recommended using a soft toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste or gel. You can find these from most supermarkets and local pharmacies. You may also opt to use a fluoride rinse in addition to the toothpaste or gel. Clean your teeth with the toothbrush as normal and then gently floss the veneers and bridges. Be careful to avoid any breakages. Finish with your fluoride mouthwash to remove any bacteria and left over plaque that can lead to stains and tooth decay.
How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?
Unfortunately, porcelain veneers are not a permanent treatment. Typically, veneers can last anything from 8-15 years. It all depends on how well you care for them and your teeth. Cleaning your veneers regularly and taking care with what food and drinks you choose to consume can help your treatment to last longer.
If you are considering veneers as part of your smile makeover, contact Andrew Lee Dentistry today. Our team is highly trained and experienced in all aspects of veneers and smile makeovers.
