Charleston dentist discusses power of porcelain veneers for smile improvement

Since every patient is unique, Mouth Carolina Dentistry, PA appreciates the importance of offering more than one option for each type of treatment. For this reason, Dr. Andrew Greenberg can place 2 different types of veneers to recontour and whiten teeth, or smooth chips and close gaps:

• Porcelain veneers
• Resin-based composite veneers

Both types of veneers are designed to replace the outermost portion of the tooth, known as the protective enamel covering. In turn, each option is applied to the front of the tooth.

Composite veneers, however, are made from a mix of glass and resin. Porcelain veneers are made from very thin layers of ceramic. Composite veneers may be applied in one visit. Dr. Greenberg will apply and mold the composite material in layers. After chips are smoothed or teeth are rounded or repositioned, the material is hardened to assure strength and durability of this new tooth structure.

Porcelain veneers are typically a 2-visit process. The first appointment involves taking impressions of teeth to be treated. The tooth itself will be prepared, as a thin layer of enamel may be abraded to accommodate the width of the porcelain shells. The lab uses the impression to make your veneers. After around 2 weeks, you will return to Mouth Carolina Dentistry, PA. Dr. Greenberg will check the fit and appearance of your veneer. If all looks and feels good, Dr. Greenberg will cement the veneers to your teeth.

While each patient has differing needs, goals, and budgets, porcelain veneers are particularly sought-after for their beauty and natural looking appearance.

Patients may also find that porcelain veneers:

• Are highly durable
• Can last many years
• Rarely require maintenance
• Are highly stain-resistant

Keep in mind that the life of any veneer depends on your habits. Before Dr. Greenberg places any veneers, your mouth must be decay- and disease-free. Ideally, you will be maintaining optimal health with regular checkups and cleanings as prescribed by Dr. Greenberg.

He will also discuss lifestyle factors that could have a negative effect on the outcome of treatment: Do you open packages with your teeth? Do you regularly chew ice? Is fingernail-biting your nervous habit? Do you clench or grind your teeth at night? Dr. Greenberg can see evidence of these habits on your teeth and, in fact, these habits may have contributed to the very conditions that warranted your needing veneers in the first place, such as chips and cracks.

These habits can make your veneers vulnerable to breakage. Mouth Carolina Dentistry, PA wants patients to be happy with their Porcelain Veneers in Charleston SC. Damaging conditions will need to be treated prior to veneer placement. A customized dental appliance worn at night to protect the teeth may also be suggested. Discuss your concerns with Dr. Greenberg during an appointment. Call (843)751 4262 to schedule.