Your teeth perform numerous important functions, including providing you with a beautiful smile. Any imperfections, no matter how minor, can greatly diminish the quality of your smile, and your confidence. Fortunately, with cosmetic procedures, minor imperfections can be corrected, and the beauty of your smile returned. At Richard Whipple, DDS, we can fix minor imperfections in your teeth with porcelain veneers.

What are Veneers?

Veneers may not look like much, but they can perform amazing transformations of the appearance of damaged teeth. They are thin shell-like structures that are made to cover the front of flawed teeth, effectively covering over the flaws, giving you back your beautiful smile.

Materials for a Natural, Beautiful Smile

Typically, veneers are made from either composite resin or porcelain. At Richard Whipple, DDS, we use porcelain for your veneer needs. Porcelain is stronger than composite resin, able to stand up to normal, everyday use. Moreover, while both materials match the color of your natural teeth, porcelain does a much better job at blending in. Not only can it be specifically finished to perfectly match the color of your natural teeth, but it also can mimic the light reflecting properties of natural enamel.

Correcting a Variety of Imperfections

Veneers can be used to correct some different dental imperfections, including:

  • Chips or cracks that only affect the enamel of your teeth.
  • Gaps between your teeth.
  • Minor overlapping (that which does not affect the health of your mouth).
  • Amalgam fillings that may have been placed in visible teeth.
  • Discoloration.

Getting Your Veneers

Getting your porcelain veneers takes two visits. During your first visit, we prepare the affected teeth. This is done by removing just a small amount of the enamel from the front of the teeth, which creates the space necessary for a natural fit. Next, impressions of your mouth are taken. The impressions are sent to a lab, where your veneers are created. It typically takes up to two weeks for your veneers to be finished. When they are ready, we clean your teeth with a specialized solution, which helps to create a rough surface. This texture is meant to help provide a stronger bond. A dental cement is placed on your teeth, and your veneers are set in place.

Caring for Your Veneers

While veneers do not experience decay or cavities, they still need to be cared for properly. They can, and should, be taken care of just like the rest of your natural teeth. You should continue to brush and floss as normal, as well as schedule regular visits for dental cleanings and exams. These habits will help to prevent gum disease as well as tooth decay and cavities in areas where your veneers do not cover. By properly caring for your whole mouth, veneers included, you can help to ensure a long life for your restorations.

Benefits of Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers provide several benefits:

  • They look completely natural and blend in seamlessly with the rest of your smile.
  • They are stain resistant.
  • They are biocompatible (they will not irritate your gums).
  • You regain your confidence.

If minor imperfections are affecting the beauty of your smile, veneers can help. Contact Richard Whipple, DDS today at (503) 620-6133 to find out if porcelain veneers are right for you.