All types of porcelain veneers will transform your smile. Which porcelain veneers are right for you, however, will depend on a variety of factors, including how the veneers are made and applied. First, it’s important to understand the differences between the various cosmetic dentistry procedures that fall under the blanket term of “veneers.”
The Benefits of Porcelain Veneers
All veneers correct the same cosmetic complaints, including:
- Chips.
- Misalignment.
- Stains.
- Discoloration.
- Worn enamel.
- Gaps.
- Short teeth.
- Unevenly sized teeth.
- Misshapen teeth.
To design your customized smile makeover, your Manhattan cosmetic dentist needs to create a blueprint, and that is done by taking impressions. A thorough examination of your teeth and their condition will influence the next steps – specifically, the determination of which veneer procedure is right for you.
The three categories of veneers include:
- Porcelain veneers: The most well-known kind of veneers, porcelain veneers involve the removal of a small amount of tooth enamel. This step is necessary so each tooth can accommodate the veneer without looking unnatural, while also creating a surface that allows for a strong seal. Grinding away tooth enamel is irreversible, and that element of the procedure can make some patients nervous. However, most veneer patients are so pleased with their smile makeover that they never look back and happily live with their flawless veneers for a very long time.
- Lumineers: Pain-free and non-invasive, Lumineers are a big hit with patients who want an excellent smile and the promise of an easy road to get there. The contact-lens-thin shells of porcelain that Lumineers are made of are permanently bonded to the front of each tooth, just like traditional veneers. Like prepless veneers, there is no shaving down of teeth. Lumineers are ultra-thin, and just as strong as veneers.
- Prepless veneers: An excellent version of veneers, prepless veneers satisfy the skittish patients who want the beautiful new smile without an invasive procedure. Prepless veneers are as their name implies – free from major prep. Teeth are sanded lightly and cleaned so the surface of the enamel is free from shine, stains, and minor imperfections, ensuring that nothing interferes with the color and placement of these incredibly thin permanent veneers.
All types of veneers and Lumineers are stain resistant and created using incredibly thin and super-strong porcelain. The porcelain must be chosen thoughtfully so that it blends seamlessly with the color of your natural teeth underneath the veneer.
When carefully handcrafted and meticulously bonded to teeth, veneers repair, lengthen, straighten, shape, and beautify your teeth to create a gorgeous, durable smile that will last for decades.
A Unique Smile Makeover
Ultimately, the smile makeover you undergo will be tailored to your needs. Maybe it includes some veneers, but also porcelain crowns and cosmetic tooth bonding. The right configuration will be decided between you and your Manhattan cosmetic dentist, as well as the look you want to achieve, the kind of time you have, and your budget.
Perfect smiles take time and effort. With patience and an experienced NYC dentist on your side, you will achieve a new smile that is flawless, white, and natural-looking. Enjoy a better you and a happier life with teeth that make you want to smile.
Contact Dr. Michael J. Wei to schedule a consultation and discuss the porcelain veneer process. Find out what type of porcelain veneers are right for you and whether you are a good candidate for this cosmetic dentistry treatment.
