Do you have a few questions about improving your smile with porcelain veneers? Your Annapolis, MD, dentists, Dr. John Ruland and Dr. Michael Ruland can help you decide if the popular cosmetic dentistry option is the ideal choice for you.

What are porcelain veneers?

Veneers are thin, tooth-shaped shells attached to the fronts of teeth. They're designed to conceal a variety of imperfections and offer a simple way to transform your smile.

Porcelain, a material that looks just like tooth enamel, is often used to make veneers. The ceramic material is very durable and resists staining.

What types of flaws can veneers hide?

Porcelain veneers can conceal many types of imperfections that mar the appearance of your smile. They're an excellent option if you have minor damage caused by a chip or shallow crack. Do you have unsightly bumps or pits on the surface of a tooth? Adding a veneer will make the surface of your tooth appear perfectly smooth.

Teeth aren't always perfectly uniform. One can be a little crooked, while another may be more pointed than you'd like. Fortunately, improving oddly shaped teeth can be as corrected with veneers. Thanks to your new restorations, your problem teeth will blend in perfectly with your smile.

Veneers can also be used to hide discolorations, lengthen short teeth, close slight gaps between teeth and whiten your entire smile.

What is the veneer process like?

Before you receive your veneers, your dentist will remove a very small amount of tooth enamel to allow for a comfortable fit for your restorations. Your new veneers will be made from an impression of your mouth to ensure that they fit your teeth perfectly. Veneers are placed and become a permanent part of your smile.

How will I take care of porcelain veneers?

Brushing and flossing your teeth every day will help keep your veneers in perfect condition. Avoid abrasive toothpastes, as those products may scratch your veneers. Veneers are designed to be durable, but they can break if you use your teeth to open packages or gnaw on ice, pens or hard objects or foods.

Boost your smile with veneers and other cosmetic dentistry procedures offered by Ruland Family Dentistry in Annapolis, MD. Call Drs. John and Michael Ruland at (410) 268-5800 to schedule your appointment.