When people want a smile makeover that gives a beautiful, celebrity-like smile, porcelain veneers are the direction they turn. Porcelain veneers are thin ceramic coatings applied to the teeth. They are designed to match the color and clarity of the natural teeth. The veneers cover the front of the teeth and wrap around the sides a bit, for a flawless look. They can be used on a tooth that is discolored or chipped, or placed across several front teeth to enhance a smile.
Porcelain veneers come in traditional and ultra-thin options. However, the differences are not always evident, and it is sometimes difficult to determine which is the right choice.
Traditional Porcelain Veneers
Traditional porcelain veneers are approximately one-half millimeter in thickness. That is about half the thickness of a dime. This option gives good coverage, regardless of the reason or need, and works well in many instances.
Ultra-Thin Veneers
Ultra-thin veneers have become popular in recent years, and there are several different brands. The are about half the thickness of the traditional veneers, meaning less of the tooth’s structure needs to be removed before placing them. Some brands are advertised as “no prep”, claiming their thickness is so minimal they can be adhered right to the tooth with none of the tooth’s structure needing to be removed. However, we notice anything attached to our teeth, such as a small piece of paper or tiny piece of food. It feels odd and unnatural. Therefore, if no prepping of the tooth is done, it will feel thick and unnatural. For this reason, there is really not a “no prep” option that has a natural look and feel, but the ultra-thin option is generally the best choice because it is more conservative. Though it is important to consider that there are times when the ultra-thin veneers are not the best option. In instances when a precise match to surrounding teeth are needed, when significant gaps need closing, or when a major part of a tooth’s structure is missing, it may be best to go the traditional route.
It is important to determine which is the right fit for you
While a person can research the options, it is best to consult with a cosmetic dentist, who has experience with both. Take time to explore the smile galleries of cosmetic dentists, then meet with one you feel would be a good fit. If you let the dentist know how you’d like your smile to look, he or she can advise you on the best solution.
This article is brought to you by Enfield porcelain veneers provider, Dr. William Cummiskey.
