Ladera Ranch dentists discuss pros and cons of dental veneers

One type of dental procedure can smooth chips, brighten even the darkest teeth, correct poorly shaped teeth, and close gaps. These improvements result in a smile that looks better and is healthier. There is no more fighting with floss to clean crowded spaces between teeth. Food no longer gets packed in jagged surfaces or gaps.

What is this dental do-it-all?

Porcelain veneers are eggshell-thin layers bonded securely to the front of teeth. In addition to their ability to correct and camouflage a number of dental concerns, veneers may be a preferred treatment option due to their:

• Natural look – Veneers are designed to look and reflect light like the teeth you are correcting before they may have developed chips or an unwanted shape.
• Effectiveness in whitening – Veneers may be the only cosmetic treatment to achieve a stain-free smile for patients with very yellow or gray stains that are resistant to bleaching treatments. The porcelain works by covering up stained teeth.
• Stain resistance – The glass-like surfaces are highly resistant to stains, unlike natural tooth enamel.
• Conservation of natural tooth structure – For those patients who don't have significant structural problems or alignment issues, veneers are an ideal alternative to dental crowns and braces to reshape, resurface and adjust spacing.

There are many pros to dental veneers, but patients in Ladera Ranch should also be aware of the cons. Some considerations Basti Dental Care will discuss with you include:

• A portion of enamel must be removed – To accommodate the width of the veneer; otherwise healthy tooth structure must be sloughed off. When this protective covering is removed, it can't be regenerated, so the process is considered irreversible.
• The color is irreversible – Veneers can't be whitened. If you want a brighter smile, you will have to get those teeth that can be whitened with bleaching agents treated. Veneers may not match existing teeth shades.
• Sensitivity – Whenever enamel is removed, you may find affected teeth are more sensitive, especially to hot or cold foods and drink.
• Vulnerable to damage – Veneers have come a long way and are now more durable and strong than ever before. However, if you grind or clench your teeth the pressure might be more than the porcelain can withstand. Drs. Alex and Nina Basti in these cases may recommend a nightguard customized to your mouth as a protective measure.

While many patients have transformed their smiles with porcelain veneers, it's important to discuss them with Basti Dental Care in the Ladera Ranch area. The Basti's may find your condition is more suitable for a more affordable, less extensive option like dental bonding or in the cases of certain functional and bite or alignment problems, dental crowns or orthodontic treatments may be recommended.