Cosmetic Dentistry: Veneers
If you're looking for a cosmetic dentist in Carlisle, PA, give Dr. Killian's office a call. As an experienced cosmetic dentist, Dr. Killian offers a range of cosmetic treatments to whiten and improve your smile, including porcelain and composite veneers.
Dental veneers cover the surface of your teeth, either to restore your teeth's appearance or repair damaged teeth. As a cosmetic dentistry treatment, a veneer covers stained or discolored teeth, hides worn tooth enamel and camouflages uneven tooth alignment. Veneers are also an excellent choice for covering old and unsightly fillings.
Types of Dental Veneers
Cosmetic dentistry makes veneers from porcelain or composite resin, the same substance used for natural-looking fillings and dental bonding. Both materials have their advantages and disadvantages.
Composite veneers can be prepared in a dental lab or applied directly to the teeth during a single appointment with Dr. Killian. A composite resin veneer does not look as natural as its porcelain counterpart, nor does it last as long. Composite resin veneers also stain easier than porcelain, and will chip or crack over time. Dr. Killian can, however, repair a chipped composite veneer. A major benefit of composite veneers is they are significantly less expensive than porcelain, an important consideration because dental insurance rarely covers cosmetic dentistry.
In contrast, a porcelain veneer is stronger and more durable than composite resin. With proper care, porcelain is extremely stain-resistant, and does not wear down over time. Dr. Killian cements the porcelain veneer directly to your teeth.
However, porcelain has some important drawbacks. Your tooth enamel must be roughened and trimmed before Dr. Killian installs a porcelain veneer, permanently changing your teeth. After treatment you will always need to wear a porcelain veneer.
In addition, porcelain veneers cannot be repaired. If the veneer chips or cracks, the entire appliance requires replacing. On the plus side, porcelain is much tougher and less likely to chip than composite resin, and while expensive, has a natural appearance that holds up even under close scrutiny.
Dental Veneer or Teeth Whitening?
A dental veneer requires the removal of natural tooth material. A porcelain veneer requires the most changes to tooth structure, but composite resins also require some changes to tooth enamel so the resin can bond with the tooth. The procedure cannot be reversed, and any changes made to the tooth are permanent.
Dr. Killian prefers to maintain your teeth's natural properties whenever possible. If your teeth are in good health, he may recommend alternatives to a veneer, such as orthodontics or teeth whitening. On the other hand, if your teeth are severely discolored, a dental veneer may be the best treatment option for you.
Cosmetic Dentistry in Carlisle, PA
Dr. Killian brings a multi-disciplinary approach to his dental practice, combining orthodontics, cosmetic treatments and traditional dentistry to give you the most comprehensive dental care possible. If you live in Carlisle, PA and need a friendly, professional cosmetic dentist, give our office a call, and Dr. Killian will help you achieve your dream of a dazzling smile.
Other Cosmetic Dentistry Services: