Sometimes, cosmetic smile improvement requires replacing a small amount of visible tooth structure. Porcelain veneers are wafer-thin shells of highly-realistic dental porcelain that are crafted to replicate the front surfaces of healthy, natural teeth. Each veneer is custom-made to match the ideal size, shape, and color of your tooth, and is then bonded to the tooth’s front surface. Using one or a combination of veneers, Dr. Okoniewski can often create a complete smile makeover with a single procedure.
When to Consider Porcelain Veneers
Given their unique nature and ability to reinvent your teeth’s appearance, porcelain veneers are often recommended for a variety of cosmetic needs, including (but not limited to);
- Severe tooth stains (when teeth-whitening is insufficient)
- Oddly-shaped teeth
- Teeth that appear too small
- Excessive spaces, or gaps, between teeth
- Noticeable tooth wear
- Chipped edges, or lightly-cracked tooth enamel
- Slightly crooked teeth (unless Invisalign® aligners are required)
- Smiles that exhibit several different cosmetic issues at once
What are Lumineers?
Porcelain veneers are incredibly thin – typically no more than 0.5 mm. However, to accommodate them, Dr. Okoniewski will have to prepare your teeth for their placement by lightly sculpting a small amount of enamel from their front surfaces.
For patients who qualify, we may recommend Lumineers, a thinner veneer that requires no tooth preparation before being placed. The ultra-thin porcelain shells are custom-made from the same realistic porcelain, but are significantly thinner for patients with mild to moderate cosmetic issues, and who prefer to not alter their tooth structure.
Ask Dr. Okoniewski if You Can Benefit from Veneers
If you want a more attractive smile but wish to minimize the amount of cosmetic dental work you will need, then porcelain veneers or even less invasive Lumineers may be your best option. To find out if you’re a good candidate, schedule a visit with Dr. Okoniewski by calling Advanced Dental Concepts in Auburn Hills, MI today at (248) 852-1820.
