Porcelain Veneer Alternatives
Cosmetic dentistry treatments can enhance your appearance and boost your overall confidence. Porcelain veneers are one of the most popular cosmetic procedures performed at Dental Associates of New England in Boston, MA. They can conceal a wide range of aesthetic concerns, including chips, cracks, gaps, and discoloration.
Some patients may not qualify for porcelain veneers. Others may wish to explore other options. In this article, our doctors explore porcelain veneer alternatives so you can be well-informed about all treatment solutions.
Deciding on Treatment
Every treatment plan designed by our doctors is tailored to the individual needs of the patient. Your recommended treatment depends on your overall oral health as well as any specific issues you may be facing. Whether you want to conceal minor damage like chips and cracks, straighten your smile, or brighten your teeth, there is a solution for you.
Dental Bonding
Cosmetic bonding is one of the most popular porcelain veneer alternatives. In contrast to veneers, bonding does not require permanent alteration to the tooth structure. For this reason, this procedure is often recommended for patients with insufficient dental enamel. Individuals who desire a more conservative treatment can also benefit from this procedure.
Bonding involves the application of composite resin to the affected areas. The material is shaped, molded, and hardened, then polished to blend in with your natural teeth. The entire process can be completed in about one hour at our Boston office.
Tooth Contouring
While bonding adds to a tooth, contouring takes away. During this process, your dentist removes small amounts of enamel to alter the size or shape of a tooth. Contouring may be performed as a standalone procedure or in combination with dental bonding. When indicated, this process offers dramatic results without the need for veneers.
Orthodontics
Dentists often refer to porcelain veneers as “instant orthodontics.” This is because patients with mild misalignment - such as crooked, overlapped, or gapped teeth - can quickly and dramatically improve the appearance of their smiles with veneers.
If you are considering veneers because of dental misalignment, you may wish to consider orthodontic treatment instead. Braces or Invisalign® can permanently correct your smile, offering long-lasting results. In contrast, veneers will need to be replaced every five to 15 years.
Dental Crowns
Like veneers, dental crowns are custom-crafted restorations. While veneers only cover the surfaces of front teeth, crowns fit over the entire tooth structure. Crowns are often recommended when the teeth are damaged, decayed, or weakened. They can deliver improved aesthetics as well as added strength and reinforcement that veneers cannot offer.
Teeth Whitening
Is your primary goal a brighter smile? You may wish to consider teeth whitening instead of veneers. Professional teeth whitening can dramatically lighten the shade of your natural teeth. At Dental Associates of New England, we offer ZOOM! 2™ Teeth Whitening, a safe and effective procedure that delivers results in just one appointment.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Are you interested in enhancing the appearance of your smile? Schedule a consultation at our Boston, MA, practice. Our doctors can work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that will meet your goals. Contact us online or call our office at (781) 890-4900.