Cosmetic dentistry is an increasingly popular way to help patients improve the appearance of their smile and trouble areas on the surface of the teeth. One such technique utilized in dentistry is the application of porcelain veneers, which ultimately helps to mask discoloration, gaps and cracks in the teeth.

What Is It?

They are thin layers of porcelain that are bonded onto the front of the teeth. And while these wafer thin slices of porcelain are normally very frail and brittle, their attachment to a hard surface such as a tooth makes the veneer especially durable and lost lasting.

Which Imperfections Are It Is Used To Correct?

These are used to cover over and fill in gaps between the teeth, mask chips and cracks and cover spots of discoloration caused by stains, chemicals (such as fluoride) or physical injury.

The placement of these glasslike porcelain veneers over some of the problem areas listed above creates an instant change to the smile, as the teeth appear straighter, brighter, whiter and more appropriately spaced then before.

How Are They Created?

Should your dentist determine that these are the best way to improve your smile and mask other imperfections to the teeth, he or she will then move on to the process of choosing them that best fit the natural appearance of your face.

Specifically, the dentist will look for ones that resemble the size and shape of your existing teeth or in the case of a complete overhaul, he or she will use it that work well with the size of your face and mouth.

One the size and shape of your new ones are chosen, the cosmetic dentist will then prepare the existing teeth by removing a small amount of enamel from the surface. Temporary ones will then be bonded to the teeth to protect them while permanent veneers are created in a special laboratory.

After the temporary ones are adhered, one final visit is required to remove this set and attach the permanent ones created in the lab. Upon completing this last step, the teeth will have a more beautiful straight, white and complete appearance than they did before.

How Much Do They Cost?

While prices may vary from practice to practice, most cosmetic dentistry centers charge between $700-$2000 per tooth for porcelain veneers. And while this is admittedly more expensive than other bonding procedures, they last much longer and look much better over the long haul. That is the main reason why porcelain veneers remain a popular procedure despite their cost.

How Do I Get Started With Them?

Getting started with porcelain veneers and cosmetic dentistry is as easy as contacting a trusted cosmetic dentist and setting up a consultation. From there he or she can discuss with you treatment options, costs and scheduling should it be the right cosmetic dentistry procedure for particular dental needs.