Porcelain laminates are thin porcelain shells on top of teeth. A cosmetic dentist works with a dental laboratory to create these custom made restorations. Attractive veneers are designed to fit a patient's face, smile and personality. When they are done correctly, they're strong and resist discoloration and chipping.

          Porcelain laminates are used to create a beautiful smile without having to completely cut down your teeth. Tetracycline tooth stain, erythromycin staining and most tooth stains can usually be hidden. When a tooth stain is really bad, the base of the veneer can be made to mask the color underneath. These restorations can be made with a natural looking surface texture and coloring to give a wonderful appearance. They can straighten, lengthen and whiten teeth to create a beautiful and functional smile. Chipped, gapped, and badly aligned teeth can be covered and look beautiful. Not everyone wants to have braces done over several years. Badly aligned teeth can be covered to create a beautiful smile. This can be done instantly compared to the months needed to complete orthodontic treatment.

          Porcelain laminates cut away less tooth structure than crowns. Unlike composite veneers and bonding, they do not stain or discolor over time. These restorations can also be made with natural looking surface texture which is very difficult to create with composite bonding. A cosmetic dentist uses the best method for each tooth to create a beautiful smile. Veneers are just one tool. Most of the time tooth whitening, all porcelain crowns, cosmetic tooth reshaping, gum contouring and other techniques are used together to create a wonderful smile. They usually last from 3 to 12 years or longer. However, it is important to understand that the teeth underneath had to be reshaped and some tooth enamel was removed to make room for the porcelain. Once teeth are prepared, they must later be re-veneered or crowned.

          The first visit for most patients is a cosmetic consultation to determine the patient's cosmetic needs and wants. Once a patient decides to have porcelain laminates done, digital photographs and statues of the patient's teeth are made and studied. Sometimes the statues are shaped and wax covers are designed to help study and predict what the patient's new smile will look like. The patient is then invited back to have the teeth prepared and an accurate impression taken. The impression is sent to a dental laboratory technician along with detailed instructions. Once the veneers are made, the patient returns to the dental office to have the restorations carefully placed. Like all other dental restorations, they must be cared for regularly. All patients, especially cosmetically oriented patients, should return for regular cleanings and check ups. If you are interesed in Cosmetic Dentistry and would like to schedule a free cosmetic consultation with Atlanta Cosmetic Dentist, Dr. Mark Allan Padolsky, call 404-874-7428 and make an appointment.