Four Questions About Porcelain Veneers

When you visit a dentist in the Bend area to address some concerns you have about your oral health, you might find your head spinning a bit as you are presented with a range of treatment options. Modern dentistry makes many different types of treatment possible, which is a great thing – but it can all be a little overwhelming for the patient. 

The best way to overcome such feelings is to arm yourself with information. The more you know about different types of dental treatments, the better prepared you will be to make a confident choice about which option is right for your future. In this post, we’ll answer some questions about porcelain veneers and discuss how they can significantly improve your teeth. Contact the team at Ponderosa Dental Center if you would like to schedule your first appointment!

What are Porcelain Veneers?

A porcelain veneer is simply a thin piece of porcelain that has been carefully designed and fabricated to fit perfectly over the front of one of your existing teeth. These are not temporary covers, but rather permanent fixtures that are bonded to your natural tooth to offer great looks and performance for years to come. 

Are Porcelain Veneers Only for Cosmetic Purposes?

Absolutely not. It’s true that porcelain veneers are an important part of many cosmetic dentistry treatments, but they can play a valuable role in how your teeth function, as well. For instance, if you have a tooth that is chipped, getting a veneer on that tooth may allow it to work better day after day, while also cleaning up the look of your smile at the same time. You can work with Dr. De Graff here at Ponderosa Dental Center to determine how porcelain veneers might be used to solve oral health problems you are facing. 

Can Veneers Be Used for Any Patient?

Not everyone is going to be a good fit for a veneer, and those individuals will want to look at other options for dental treatment that can help them reach their goals. Specifically, if you have problems with gum health, or with the strength of your jawbone in the area of the affected teeth, going with porcelain veneers might not be the right fit. Other structural work could be required to get the best results, and it may be that replacing your old tooth entirely with a dental implant could be appropriate. 

Do Porcelain Veneers Last a Lifetime?

While your veneers might not last for your entire life, they can be expected to offer many years of reliable performance. As a starting point, you should expect to get at least 10 years out of quality porcelain veneers, and it’s possible to double that number if you provide the veneers with proper care along the way. 

Are porcelain veneers going to be the right solution for your oral health needs? The best way to make that decision is with the help of our friendly team. Schedule an appointment at Ponderosa Dental Center and let’s put you on the fast track toward the best oral health of your life. We can’t wait to get started!