Porcelain dental veneers can radically change the look of your smile using a thin layer of tooth-colored material that is bonded directly to your natural tooth, covering the front surface completely. These thin shells can improve the color, texture, and appearance of your teeth. Porcelain veneers have many advantages:

• They come in a variety of natural tooth shades, allowing you to brighten and whiten your smile permanently.
• They are extremely stain-resistant, providing protection from foods and coffee or red wine.
• They provide a more natural tooth appearance, and refract light in a realistic way.
• They are well-tolerated by gum tissue.
• They don’t require as much shaving down and shaping as crowns, leaving more of your natural tooth intact.
• They don’t require any special care after application.
• They can solve multiple dental problems, such as gaps or misshapen teeth.

Porcelain veneers do have some disadvantages:

• They are typically not able to be repaired if they chip or crack, and will need to be replaced entirely.
• Because of the loss of the top layer of natural tooth enamel, the process is not reversible.
• Your tooth may develop a greater sensitivity to cold or hot beverages and foods.
• They may appear to be slightly different than the surrounding teeth in color or texture.
• They may become loose or fall off.
• They aren’t a good choice for people with severe decay or gum disease, or for people who grind their teeth or clench their jaws.

Typically, a porcelain dental veneer will last between five and ten years, but can last much longer with proper care. There is no special care required. Follow good oral hygiene practices, and floss and brush your teeth as you normally would before the veneers. Continue to see your dentist for regular dental cleanings.

Porcelain dental veneers may be the perfect choice for you to resolve your dental issues. Consult with your dentist today to see if they are the right option for you and your teeth.

Dr. Cruz is a dentist in Toronto Canada.