Learn why porcelain veneer treatment is a worthy investment.

If you're interested in transforming your smile, there's no better time than now to look into getting porcelain veneers.Porcelain veneers are one of the most sought-after cosmetic dentistry procedures, with close to 600,000 treatments being performed annually. Based on the data, porcelain veneers are only going to grow in popularity over the coming years as the interest in elective cosmetic dentistry continues to skyrocket.For many patients, the instant aesthetic transformation that comes from porcelain veneers is reason enough to invest in a smile makeover. However, there are more positive effects of porcelain veneer treatment than you might realize.Here are 10 amazing facts about porcelain veneers that you should know if you're considering this in-demand cosmetic dentistry service.

1. Porcelain veneers can last as long as 20 years or more when cared for properly.

Although receiving porcelain veneers is a permanent decision, meaning you won't be able to go back to your natural teeth, the veneers themselves are semi-permanent. However, porcelain veneers can last a lot longer than many people realize.When properly placed and cared for, porcelain veneers can last 20 years or longer, based on group studies. By comparing the expense of treatment to the potential lifespan, you can see how fantastic the cost is versus the potential value of porcelain veneers.

2. From minor chips to missing teeth, porcelain veneers can solve a wide range of issues.

Porcelain veneers didn't become the go-to smile makeover treatment for no reason. One of the biggest advantages of porcelain veneers is how flexible treatment is and the huge number of tooth problems or “flaws” it can fix—both large and small.Some smaller issues that can be fixed with porcelain veneers include small chips or cracks in the surface of the teeth and permanent discoloration that won't lift with whitening. Bigger issues that can be fixed include a misaligned bite, gaps between the teeth, a “gummy” smile, or even missing teeth.

3. No one needs to know about your porcelain veneers, thanks to their natural appearance.

Decades ago, veneers gained an unfortunate nickname of Chiclet teeth in reference to early treatment resulting in very boxy, blindingly white teeth that were obviously fake. Thankfully, those days are long gone.Modern porcelain veneers appear so natural in design that it's hard to even tell if someone has them or not. If you prefer keeping your cosmetic dentistry private, you can rest assured that new acquaintances won't know about your veneers unless you choose to let them in on your secret.

4. Your teeth won't suffer from excessive enamel removal during the prepping stage.

A second big myth about getting porcelain veneers is that your natural teeth will be reduced down to tiny stumps.Modern veneer placement no longer requires excessive enamel removal. When you get porcelain veneers, some enamel will need to be removed to make room for the thickness of the porcelain overlay. However, your dentist will remove as little as possible to ensure your natural teeth stay strong and healthy underneath.

5. Porcelain veneers can fix just a few problem teeth that bother you or your entire smile.

Porcelain veneer treatment is extremely customizable, and you don't need to get a “full set,” so to speak.If you only have a few problem teeth or one area of your smile that bothers you, your cosmetic dentist can apply veneers to just those spots. For example, if your front top and bottom teeth don't quite look how you'd like, porcelain veneers can cap over just those teeth. Or if you have a gap between your front teeth that bothers you, veneers can just be applied there.

6. Chronic tooth sensitivity can be permanently remedied with porcelain veneers.

In some cases, dentists will recommend porcelain veneers as a treatment option when enamel erosion has caused chronic sensitivity.Tooth sensitivity is a very common dental issue and is experienced by 1 in 8 adults. This sensitivity is usually related to the temperature of food or drink (hot or cold). There are a number of causes behind tooth sensitivity, but if your teeth are otherwise decay-free and healthy, porcelain veneers can be a permanent solution.

7. Depending on the flaw, porcelain veneers can partially or fully cover the surface of your tooth.

Porcelain veneers can either offer partial or full coverage of your teeth. Your dentist will either recommend a partial coverage for minor flaws limited to only a few teeth or full coverage if the flaws are larger or when a full smile makeover is your goal. Full-coverage veneers generally last longer since they encapsulate the tooth, but partial veneers are still a fantastic option when deemed appropriate by your cosmetic dentist.

8. Porcelain veneers can improve the appearance of your facial structure.

Did you know that missing or misaligned teeth can change your facial structure? Porcelain veneers not only improve the appearance of your teeth but also the look and size of your smile. Skilled cosmetic dentists can change the shape and width of your smile, as well as accentuate or minimize certain facial features. The end result can be a fuller or slimmer facial appearance and a more youthful smile overall.

9. Temporary veneers mean you get to test drive your new smile before committing.

Before you get your permanent porcelain veneers placed, you'll need to wear temporary veneers for a week or two. The temporary veneers not only protect your newly prepped teeth, but they also give you a chance to “test drive” your new smile.Your temporaries will look and feel like your permanent veneers. If you see any flaws you don't like or feel they don't fit properly, your dentist will be able to make the necessary changes to your permanent set before they are placed.

10. Caring for your porcelain veneers is the same as your normal oral health routine.

The wonderful thing about porcelain veneer care is that it's practically no different than your standard at-home oral care routine.You'll continue your standard brushing and flossing routine, as well as seeing your dentist biannually. Keep in mind that while porcelain veneers are super tough, you still need to steer clear from chewing on hard items, whether it's crunching on ice or using your teeth as a tool.

Book your porcelain veneers consultation at Tomasik Family Dental.

If you're interested in pursuing porcelain veneer treatment to improve your smile, the first step is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Tomasik.During this consultation, Dr. Tomasik will perform a thorough examination, evaluate your current oral health, and have a conversation with you about your smile goals. He will be able to determine which flaws are able to be fixed with porcelain veneers and what results you can expect to achieve.From there, you can either schedule your next appointment for tooth preparation, or if Dr. Tomasik finds any oral health problems (i.e. untreated decay), appointments to address underlying issues before veneers can be scheduled.You can schedule your consultation appointment with Dr. Tomasik by giving our office a call or using our online Schedule An Appointment form.