The Top 4 Benefits of Porcelain Dental Veneers
Over a quarter of the global population indicates that they dislike smiling. Most of them indicate that their teeth have a lot to do with their reluctance to smile. This greatly reduces confidence and can weigh heavily on anyone.
Though there are several causes of poor dentition and reduced confidence, the main culprit is poor oral hygiene. This can be attributed in part to the fact that one in every ten people occasionally forgets to brush their teeth.
Fortunately, there are cosmetic dentistry procedures that you can undergo to improve your smile and restore your confidence. These procedures include teeth whitening and the attachment of dental veneers.
Porcelain dental veneers are wafer-thin, custom-made tooth-colored shells made of medical-grade ceramics. They are usually attached to the front surface of your teeth to improve your appearance. Here are some benefits of dental veneers.
1. Look Natural
Before a veneer is attached, a portion of your enamel must be shaved off. Though removing enamel is irreversible, the dentist only removes a small portion. The process is non-invasive, straightforward, and doesn’t require anesthesia.
Each veneer is made based on the impression your dentist makes of the specific tooth it will be attached to. Even after they arrive from the lab, your dentist will make further adjustments, such as matching it with the natural color of your teeth and shaving off excess material.
This is done to ensure the color and contouring of the porcelain shell blends in perfectly with your natural teeth. Such customization not only leaves you with good looking teeth, but they also feel and look natural, thus allowing you to eat and drink naturally.
2. Can Fix a Range of Dental Cosmetic Issues
Some of the dental cosmetic issues porcelain shells can remedy include:
- Discolored or stained teeth
- Misshappen teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Chips and cracks on teeth
Depending on your aesthetic needs and the strength of your tooth, your dentist will advise you on the best course of action to take.
3. Stain Resistant and Durable
Compared to natural teeth, porcelain veneers are more resistant to decay and discoloration. Even still, you need to maintain proper oral hygiene as with natural teeth. With the right care, you can expect your porcelain shells to last up to 15 years.
Here are some tips to ensure your veneers serve you well.
- Avoid grinding or clenching your teeth as it puts pressure on the shells.
- Chew wisely. Chewing on bones, ice, or things such as pens can cause a veneer to chip off.
- Wear a mouth guard when participating in physical contact sports.
- Be wary of eating too many foods and drinks that are likely to cause teeth discoloration.
- Ensure you go for dental checkups regularly.
Avoid hot and cold drinks and take extra care immediately after the procedure due to tooth sensitivity. This happens because of the enamel that was shaven off for the shell to be attached. This sensitivity is normal and will usually only last for a few days.
4. Easy Maintenance
While dental shells can last over a decade and are stain-resistant, you still need to maintain good oral health. Top dentists recommend
- Brushing after meals or at least twice daily using a nonabrasive toothpaste.
- Floss daily to remove particles that may be caught between teeth.
- Rinse your mouth using antiseptic mouthwash at least once a day and ensure it is alcohol-free so as not to soften the bonding agent.
Due to their durability and resistance to stains, good oral hygiene practices will ensure dental shells remain bright white and cavity-free.
The world has increasingly become image-conscious, and your smile is one of the first things people notice about your appearance. Smiling will not only make you look more attractive but also relieve stress, boost your immune system, make you seem successful, and helps encourage trust.
As such, the benefits of smiling go far beyond mere appearance. Thanks to veneers, you do not have to let discolored or misshapen teeth keep you from smiling. Just visit your local dentist and walk out with a renewed sense of confidence and optimism.