Frequently Asked Questions
- What are porcelain veneers?
- How durable is porcelain?
- Why use porcelain veneers instead of orthodontics?
- Are crowns ever made from porcelain?
- Will I have to worry about staining my porcelain veneer?
- What if last-minute adjustments to shape are required?
1. What are porcelain veneers?
Also called dental veneers or porcelain laminates, porcelain veneers are thin shells that are placed over the existing teeth to improve the patient's smile. They can be used to handle unsightly gaps, discoloration, chips and cracking.
2. How durable is porcelain?
Porcelain, or a compound thereof, is a very strong substance. Porcelain veneers can stand up to the normal amounts of chewing and bumping that teeth get. If porcelain is going to be used on the molars and there needs to be additional strength, a metal or gold frame will sometimes be used beneath the porcelain.
3. Why use porcelain veneers instead of orthodontics?
In a few quick visits, you could handle any gaps or poorly aligned teeth by using porcelain veneers. To get the same result could take years of painful dental braces, which can be unattractive, and then several more months wearing uncomfortable retainers.
4. Are crowns ever made from porcelain?
Because porcelain can be made to closely match natural teeth in color and shape, it is a popular choice for crowns. Additionally, porcelain is known for it's strength, so it is often shaped into a crown which lays over the remaining tooth to restore a natural-looking smile. Porcelain can be shaped into an artificial tooth that is comfortable and fits well.
5. Will I have to worry about staining my porcelain veneer?
As opposed to some cosmetic dental bonding materials that can be susceptible to staining, porcelain is rather stain-resistant. Because porcelain is ceramic, it is smooth and not porous, discoloring of porcelain is a very rare situation.
6. What if last-minute adjustments to shape are required?
Dr. Maddahi has an on-site laboratory so he can quickly and easily adjust the veneers for any fit or shape issue that might arise. Additionally, the digital equipment Dr. Maddahi uses greatly decreases the likelihood of any major changes being needed.
