Porcelain Veneers Candidates

While porcelain veneers are one of the most effective cosmetic dentistry treatments available, they aren't necessarily for everyone. It is important that you meet with a qualified cosmetic dentist to determine if you are an ideal candidate for porcelain veneers placement. During your initial consultation, the dentist will examine your teeth, and inquire regarding your medical history, as well as discuss your cosmetic goals. The dentist will also discuss the entire procedure from start to finish so you can make an informed decision as to whether the treatment is right for you. The ideal candidate for porcelain veneers includes people who have:

Cosmetic Flaws

Porcelain veneers are thin shells customized to fit perfectly over the teeth to hide any visible cosmetic imperfections. Individuals who want to correct chipped, cracked, broken, misaligned, discolored, or overcrowded teeth are candidates for the treatment. Veneers are designed to match the look and feel of natural tooth enamel, therefore giving patients a natural-looking bright, stunning smile.

Good Dental Health

Porcelain veneers patients should have relatively healthy teeth and gums. Individuals with pre-existing dental conditions, such as gingivitis, gum disease, or serious tooth decay probably won't be considered for the treatment. Additionally, anyone with severely misaligned teeth or major tooth damage may require more extensive dental work to be done. In some cases, porcelain veneers can be placed after other, more serious, oral health issues are addressed first. The dentist will evaluate your specific case and recommend the best course of treatment to give you a beautiful, healthy smile.

Realistic Expectations

Ideal porcelain veneers candidates have realistic expectations of what can be achieved with porcelain veneers. They should be fully informed about what to expect in the placement process of porcelain veneers, including the risks, benefits, and cost of porcelain veneers. Patients should also have realistic aesthetic goals, since, although porcelain veneers can cover chips, stains, minor misalignment, misshaped teeth, and gaps between the teeth, more complex problems may require an alternative treatment.

A Desire for A Whole New Look

Patients should be prepared for a short adjustment period once the permanent veneers have been placed. As porcelain veneers can completely transform the look and feel of a person's smile, candidates may need some time to get used to eating and speaking with the veneers. Additionally, a smile makeover can majorly alter a person's appearance, which may take some getting used to.

Visit the DocShop gallery to view porcelain veneers before and after photos.

Photo credit: Ruth E. Bailey D.D.S.

Knowledge of All Cosmetic Options

An ideal porcelain veneers candidate is aware of the alternatives to porcelain veneers and has fully considered the risks and benefits of all options. Braces, Invisalign®, and dental bonding can also effectively correct cosmetic dental flaws, while teeth whitening and other aesthetic treatments can help dramatically enhance a smile. An experienced cosmetic dentist will inform patients of all of their options, so they can make an informed decision which is best for their needs.

Locate a Dentist Offering Porcelain Veneers

If you are considering having a smile makeover with porcelain veneers, it is essential to make sure you are an ideal candidate for the treatment. Use DocShop to locate an experienced cosmetic dentist near you to get all the information you need.