Porcelain Veneers in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Imperfect smiles tainted by chips, gaps, or discoloration can be a source of embarrassment and low self-confidence for some people their entire lives. They may feel that they do not make an effective first impression, or that their appearance has adversely affected their social or business interactions. Porcelain veneers from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania cosmetic dentist Robert Kravitz can quickly transform problem teeth into a dazzling, vibrant new smile.

Compared to other methods of cosmetic restoration, porcelain veneers offer several benefits to our Philadelphia and Delaware Valley patients. Due to recent advances in the type of material used in porcelain veneers, they are able to very closely approximate the translucency of natural teeth, avoiding the opaque look of some bonding materials and older types of veneers. Even though the placement of porcelain veneers requires that some enamel be removed from the surface of the affected teeth, this amount is much less than is required for dental crowns, ensuring that the structural integrity of the natural tooth is preserved.

The Porcelain Veneer Process

If you are interested in porcelain veneers, you will first meet with Pennsylvania dentist Robert Kravitz for a detailed consultation; he will talk to you about your overall dental goals in addition to your specific expectations about porcelain veneers. He will also conduct a thorough examination to determine the suitability of your teeth and general health. Once he has gathered this information, you can make your second appointment with a member of Dr. Kravitz’s friendly staff.

During your second visit to our office, Dr. Kravitz will prepare the surfaces of your teeth by gently removing about ½ millimeter of enamel from your teeth, which will allow for a tight fit and strong bonding of the porcelain veneers. Most of our Philadelphia area patients do not experience any pain during this process; however, we can ensure your comfort by applying a local anesthetic beforehand. Once this step is complete, an impression will be taken of your teeth so that the lab can make porcelain veneers that are crafted specifically for the contours of your teeth. Dr. Kravitz will also make notes detailing the desired color and texture of the finished veneers.

About a week later, your finished porcelain veneers will have arrived at our Philadelphia practice. During your next appointment, your teeth will be cleaned and Dr. Kravitz will attach the veneers to your teeth. When you are absolutely satisfied with their position and fit, he will permanently affix the veneers with a durable bonding cement that he will harden with a curing light.

Caring For Your Porcelain Veneers

Although the porcelain veneers applied by Pennsylvania dentist Dr. Kravitz will look remarkably like natural teeth, it is important to remember that special care must be taken to keep them looking as beautiful as the day you received them. Excellent oral hygiene at home, including daily brushing and flossing, is the best way to ensure the longevity of your porcelain veneers. Our Philadelphia patients are also given careful diet guidelines. Although veneers can withstand most foods without problem, exceptionally hard or tough foods that could stress and twist the veneers should be avoided or chewed with the back teeth. Finally, if you grind or clench your teeth while sleeping, you will need to be fitted with a nightguard to protect your veneers.

To achieve the most beautiful results possible, Dr. Robert Kravitz may suggest that the application of porcelain veneers be combined with other cosmetic dental procedures, such as ZOOM!® teeth whitening. This way, you can correct years of wear and discoloration in just two or three visits. To learn more about how you can obtain a completely new, attractive smile through porcelain veneers, contact the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania office of Dr. Kravitz, serving all of the Delaware Valley.

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