Are Porcelain Veneers the right choice for worn enamel or is there another option?

Question

My two front teeth are see through, chipping at the bottom & now starting to form indentations because of very worn enamel stemming from lemon sucking growing up. This has also made them discoloration and sensitive. I'm wondering what the best treatment or cosmetic process is for this. Veneers? Bonding? Something else? Any push in the right direction is helpful. I know once enamel is gone, it's gone but how can I fix my smile. I don't even like to talk to people head on.

Sarah Thompson, DMD · Answer

You basically have two great options and a third option that is not as great.  I'll list them below:Option #1:  Porcelain veneers - I would highly recommend veneers because they will solve all of your cosmetic issues with your teeth.  At my office, we place them in 1 or 2 appointments and guarantee them to last 10 years, even though we expect them to last double to triple that time period.  They are probably your best option because they will preserve much of your original tooth structure, which you probably need.Option #2:  Porcelain Crowns - Like veneers, crowns are placed on your teeth and can cosmetically change your entire appearance for the better.  The main difference between crowns and veneers is that the placement of crowns requires more of your tooth structure to be removed.  This may not be optimal for you, which is why I recommend the veneers. Option #3:  Bonding - Unlike veneers and crowns, bonding is pretty temporary.  It will drastically improve your smile, but only last 3-9 months before the bonding starts to yellow in color and stain from possible foods.  Bonding is a great option for those that need a fast fix, but may not have the money for porcelain veneers.  Good luck and I hope this helps. Follow me if you have more questions.Sarah Thompson, DMD

Fadi Yassmin, BDS, MSc · Answer

Porcelain Veneers are one of the better choices although there are some other options. Porcelain veneers are ideal for
changing the shape and color and, if there is enamel missing, they can certainly
supplement it. In terms of other possible choices, you have the option of
bonding and also crowns. Bonding is considered more short term because it is a
plastic material and can tend to wear down a lot sooner. Porcelain is a lot
more aesthetic and provides at least 10 years of stability comparable
aesthetics. 
Crowns can last just as long but require a
lot more tooth structure to be removed. So to answer you, porcelain veneers are the right choice, provided they are done by a competent cosmetic dentist
who understands veneer design and correct preparation. This is key when enamel is deficient so that the placement and bonding of the Veneers is not
compromised.

Norman Huefner, DDS · Answer

You are "right on" with your choices.  Porcelain veneering or bonding will both work, however you should get a much better and longer lasting results with porcelain veneers.  The advantages of porcelain (veneering) over bonding (direct composite, a type of strong plastic) is that porcelain is stronger, much more resistant against any staining or future color change and also much better looking.Just make sure that you pick a "cosmetic dentist" who has the kind of training and experience to give you the kind of results you want.  Ask to see photos of their work, specifically before and after photos.  Most really committed cosmetic dentists take photos of all their bonding or veneering treatments, so that might be one thing that would help sort out cosmetic dentists for you.

German Arzate, DDS - Account Suspended · Answer

The worn enamel of a tooth is due to several factors, but when you have this I do not recommend Veneers, probably metal free crowns would be your best option adn can have great results and change the shape. size and color of the teeth. This  way you can have strong teeth that looks aesthetically beautiful. I hope this helps, thnak you.

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