Today we had a dental patient who came in wanting to improve the appearance of her smile, using cosmetic porcelain laminate veneers. She was in her late 20s, in good health, and had been in the restaurant/bar industry for over 10 years as a food server.

The patient was generally displeased with the appearance of her smile, as she felt her teeth were too small.  In addition, some of her teeth were stained yellow and she worried that her teeth had gaps between them.  Essentially she did not like the fact that most of her teeth did not have a uniformed color.

For years she felt that she had always wanted to do something with her smile.   After many months of research and overcoming her mild fear of dentists, she felt that she was ready.  The patient was comfortable with our team, and was ready to begin the process.

What are Porcelain Laminate Veneers?

Porcelain laminate veneers are made of very thin layer of porcelain.  In essence, they are custom made to fit over your teeth. This thin porcelain shell will mask your tooth that may be discolored, stained, or chipped.   They can be elongated to increase the over length of short teeth.  On the opposite, they can be widened to close gaps.  Lastly, their shape can also be modified to make crooked teeth look perfectly straight.

So What Makes Someone a Good Candidate for Cosmetic Porcelain Veneers?

You are a candidate for porcelain veneers if you have teeth that are severely discolored.  Or, if your teeth have any surface imperfections such as a hole, chips, cracks, and if your teeth are mildly crooked.

You are probably not a good candidate for porcelain veneers if you do not have sufficient enamel.  Another factor is  if your teeth are severely crooked or mal-positioned.  Finally, if you are a teeth grinder or clencher, or if you have poor oral hygiene, it may not be the best option for you.

 

Your friendly North Hollywood dentist