Dental porcelain or composite material used to fabricate a wafer-thin shell and placed over a tooth is called a dental veneer. In dentistry, veneers are utilized to correct a variety of problems including:
• Teeth with gaps
• Uneven or irregularly shaped teeth
• Worn enamel
• Discolored teeth
• Chipped or broken teeth

Porcelain veneers are most often used for more severe cases of chipping, cracking, dullness, discoloration, spacing, or uneven teeth. While porcelain veneers resist stains and mimic the properties of natural teeth better, they do require removal of more tooth surface than composite veneers. For this reason, dentists may suggest the less invasive option of resin veneers for small chips and cracks, or milder discoloration. Resin veneers require the removal of less of the tooth surface and are thinner.

Dental veneers are an attractive, long-term solution to dental imperfections with the following advantages:
• Stain resistant
• Well-tolerated by gum tissue
• Natural tooth appearance
• Color can be selected to make teeth appear whiter
• No extensive tooth shaping prior to the procedure

Veneers are generally considered a more conservative approach to changing a tooth’s color and shape than other alternatives such as bonding or crowns.

Dental veneers usually have a life of five to ten years, after which time they need to be replaced. Veneers do not require any special oral care. Good hygiene practices should be maintained, including brushing and flossing normally. Dentists can help patients considering a more perfect smile determine if dental veneers are the best way to achieve that goal.

Dr. Cruz is a dentist in Toronto.  Using dental veneers can dramatically improve your smile.  Contact us today to schedule your appointment.