Porcelain Veneers

Are Porcelain Veneers Right for Your Smile?

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Cosmetic dentistry offers a few different treatment options to help adjust and improve your smile. While porcelain veneers in Annapolis, MD, are often the most recommended, they aren’t always the best option. There may be times when you need a less invasive treatment option or a more comprehensive one. After examining your mouth, your dentist will consult with you about your cosmetic goals. Based on your desires and the condition of your bite, your dentist can help you determine if veneers are right for your smile.

What Porcelain Veneers in Annapolis, MD, Can Help With

Veneers are among the most versatile cosmetic procedures available. They can help address a variety of imperfections in your smile, such as:

Minor chips and fractures
Misshapen or short teeth
Gaps between teeth
Staining and discoloration

While veneers can be a great treatment option for many dental concerns, they may not always be the right choice. If you have mild or extreme cases of a dental issue, your dentist may suggest alternate treatment.

Dental Bonding

For minor imperfections in your smile, dental bonding can often help. Bonding tends to be more cost-effective, and it often only takes one appointment to complete treatment. Bonding works similarly to getting a cavity filling. Your dentist will use a bio-compatible, tooth-colored resin to shape and adjust your teeth. Tooth bonding typically doesn’t last as long as veneers (only up to ten years compared to fifteen), but it can be an effective treatment option for many minor issues.

Orthodontics

Veneers can help bridge the gap between teeth and close contact, but they aren’t designed for complex orthodontic cases. If the gaps between your teeth are too large, veneers may not be effective at improving your smile or your oral health. In these cases, your dentist will likely suggest orthodontic treatment instead. While some extreme cases of malocclusion could require traditional braces, you may be able to treat your smile with clear aligners such as Invisalign.

Restorative Dentistry

Veneers can help address damage to your teeth, such as chips, fractures, and decay. But if the damage is extensive, you may need additional protection for your oral health. Sometimes, your dentist may recommend getting restorative treatment, such as a dental crown in place of veneers. In cases of extreme damage or decay, your dentist may even suggest extraction and implant placement for improved stability and strength.

If you’re unhappy with the look or feel of your smile, porcelain veneers may be able to help. And if they can’t, there are many other cosmetic and restorative options available to help you reach your cosmetic goals. Call our office today at (410) 989-8298 to schedule a consultation and see which treatment could be right for you.