Many individuals wish that their smile was as picture-perfect as those shown in toothpaste commercials. Unfortunately, few people are born with teeth that are as straight, even, or bright as they would like. One common complaint is that teeth are small or misshapen compared to adjacent teeth.
Not much can be done to physically alter small or misshapen teeth, but porcelain veneers can conceal cosmetic imperfections. Porcelain veneers hide small or misshapen teeth to present a smile that is symmetrical and attractive. Dentists at Astoria Dental Group are happy to offer individuals in Queens, NY, Long Island, and NYC, this versatile cosmetic dentistry treatment.
How Do Small or Misshapen Teeth Affect the Smile?
Having a few teeth that are slightly misshapen, or having small teeth that are dwarfed by adjacent teeth or excess gum tissue may not seem like a big deal, but even minor cosmetic imperfections can have a drastic effect on the appearance of the smile. Small and misshapen teeth can give the smile an uneven appearance, and can affect facial proportions. In some cases, small and misshapen teeth can interfere with the bite, making it difficult to apply balanced pressure when biting or chewing.
How Can Porcelain Veneers Help?
Porcelain veneers are thin ceramic restorations that cover the facial surface of the teeth. Porcelain veneers are customized by size, shape, and color, so that they are able to address each patient’s unique needs. Porcelain veneers conceal blemishes such as discoloration, dental stains, chips, cracks, fractures, minor misalignment problems, and small or misshapen teeth. When porcelain veneers are applied, small and misshapen teeth are no longer visible. Instead, individuals will see an even, white, attractive smile.
What Is the Treatment Process?
Porcelain veneers can completely transform the appearance of the smile in as little as two dental appointments. At the first appointment, our dentists prepare the teeth for porcelain veneers placement by removing a thin layer of tooth enamel. We then design a set of veneers that will address the patient’s aesthetic concerns, while maintaining a natural looking smile. To ensure the porcelain veneers will fit comfortably and securely, we take impressions of the teeth that are used in the fabrication process. At the end of this appointment, temporary veneers are placed.
When the patient’s permanent veneers are complete, patients return to our practice for the placement procedure. Porcelain veneers are attached to the front of the teeth with a thin layer of tooth-colored dental compound. The compound is hardened with a special dental light that completes the bonding process so that the porcelain veneers are strong and secure enough to sustain the force of regular oral functions.
How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?
Porcelain veneers are extremely thin and look delicate. However, once they are bonded to the teeth, porcelain veneers are quite strong. As long as patients practice good oral hygiene habits, and avoid placing the teeth under excessive pressure, veneers should last for 10 years or more.
Get In Touch with Astoria Dental Group
If you want to enhance the appearance of your smile so that you feel more confident sharing it with others, the dentists at Astoria Dental Group would be happy to help you determine if you are an ideal candidate for porcelain veneers. To schedule an appointment with our dental team, send us a message online, or call (718) 215-0510 at your earliest convenience.
