FAQ

Porcelain veneers are a thin shell of porcelain (very similar to a contact lens) that is bonded to the front surface of teeth. The porcelain veneers feel, look and function exactly like the natural teeth. The veneers drastically enhance the smile esthetics and the appearance of chipped, decayed, crooked, misaligned, and discolored teeth and enable patients to receive their dream smile with the most minimally invasive approach. The porcelain veneers custom-crafted for the patients at Dental Esthetics Boston are made with the highest quality of ceramic material by renowned master ceramists that work exclusively for high-end individualized outcomes.

To determine if a patient is a candidate for porcelain veneers treatment, the patient will be seen in our dental office (Contact Us) for a diagnostic clinical exam including digital radiographs (x-rays). The diagnostic exam includes assessment of the overall gingival health, tooth enamel quality, potential misaligned or decayed teeth, and presence of grinding habits (bruxism). The diagnostic clinical exam is a necessary step to ensure that porcelain veneers are in fact the most suitable option for the patient, including the longevity of porcelain veneers. The occlusion (bite) will also be assessed and intraoral scan will be done so that a Digital Smile Design is custom-tailored via scientifically published techniques developed by Dr Papaspyridakos. At the follow-up visit, each candidate patient undergoes a totally reversible mock-up procedure, which enables the direct visualization of how the porcelain veneers will look like, without even touching the teeth. This is made possible through innovative techniques that Dr Papaspyridakos applies with the use of Digital Technology. When the candidate patient previews the blueprint of the final outcome, and approves the final smile design, then the porcelain veneer process can be efficiently completed in just 2 restorative appointments.

Porcelain veneers represent a permanent treatment as described above, while dental bonding is geared towards treatment of minor tooth chipping or damage. Dental bonding is a fast and efficient modality when the size of defect/fracture is small and can help improve and restore issues with small decay, small size cracks/fractures, small diastemas (spaces) between teeth and minor teeth discolorations. Dental bonding is completed in a single appointment and tooth-colored composite resin is used and bonded to the natural tooth, and the shade (color) blends as naturally as possible. Staining cannot be prevented with dental bonding, while porcelain veneers do not stain or change color due to coffee/wine drinking or diet.

Changing and enhancing the smile with porcelain veneers can efficiently rejuvenate the entire appearance. The effect of a rejuvenated smile on self-esteem, confidence and overall quality of life is powerful. According to multiple studies in the scientific literature, the porcelain veneers have a high 10-year survival rate of 95%. Survival rate can be affected by various factors. Long-term studies have reported that porcelain veneers are a safe treatment option that preserves tooth structure and survival can reach up to 20 years. Upon completion of the treatment, each patient is placed in a regular bi-annual recall system for professional cleaning and exam, to ensure the health and longevity of the porcelain veneers with proper maintenance.