Maine Dentistry > Blog > What Are Porcelain Veneers?

What Are Porcelain Veneers?

If you’re looking for a solution to stained, chipped, gapped teeth, or for teeth that are misaligned, porcelain veneers can make an excellent option. They’re easy to apply, simple to maintain, and while not considered permanent, they will last a very long time with good oral hygiene. And they’re a great way to make your smile look its best. 

 

What is a Porcelain Veneer? 

So what exactly is a veneer? Dental veneers are made of either thin, stain-resistant porcelain or composite dental resin. Our dental team provides long lasting porcelain veneers, which are simply cemented on the front surface of our teeth, improving tooth appearance cosmetically. 

 

Also used for restorative dentistry, veneers are very simple to place on your teeth. 

 

First, your dentist takes an impression of your teeth, creating a model for the veneer. Next, your dental team will look at a tooth color guide to help determine the most natural color match between veneers and your teeth. You’re then fitted with temporary veneers, while your porcelain veneers are being created in a dental lab. Once completed, porcelain veneers are then cemented in place.

 

At Maine Dentistry, we utilize no-prep or minimal-prep procedures in most cases, removing no tooth enamel or a bare minimum necessary to achieve the best results.  

 

How Long Will Your Veneers Last?

Typically, veneers last approximately 10 to 15 years, but they can last much longer. Exactly how long they last can depend on your own oral care, which will help to extend the life of your veneers. 

 

In short, even though veneers aren’t thought of as permanent, they provide a long term benefit for your dental health and appearance, and they’re a simple and attractive way to make your smile everything you want it to be!  

 

Practicing Routine Dental Care

To extend veneer life, and keep them looking their best, you should care for them just like you would for your natural teeth. Be sure to brush and floss twice daily, and it’s also important to  schedule regular six-month appointments with your dentist for your routine and cleaning.

 

Maintain Good Oral Health

You can also keep your veneers looking great and lasting a long time by avoiding things such as chewing on your nails or ice, and limiting as much as possible your consumption of sodas, candy – especially hard candy – and other foods that are very high in sugar. And, just as you should do to preserve your own natural teeth, don’t use your teeth to open packages and envelopes. 

 

While porcelain veneers are generally stain-resistant, you may want to limit your consumption of staining beverages such as tea, coffee, and red wine.

 

Finally, there’s one other important factor in preserving the life of your veneers: avoid teeth grinding. If that is a habit, your dentist can fit you with a mouthguard to avoid creating cracks or chips. 

 

Ready to Learn More About Applying Porcelain Veneers?

Whether you’re looking for full mouth veneers or for a single veneer, Maine Dentistry is here to help. Our dental team is experienced and highly skilled in the latest dentistry techniques, including cosmetic and restorative dentistry, such as veneers.

Ready to learn more, or schedule an appointment? Reach out to us today, and let us help you make your smile the best and most beautiful it can be!

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