There are many excellent cosmetic dentistry treatments currently available using a range of durable, natural-looking materials. Among all of these materials, however, the porcelain used in veneers, crowns, inlays, and onlays is probably the most highly recommended. Why is this? What makes the porcelain in porcelain veneers such a valuable dental material?

For one thing, porcelain, like natural tooth enamel, is translucent. This means that it allows a certain amount of light to pass through its surface rather than simply reflecting it. You will surely notice that, contrary to what cartoons have been telling us for years, a natural smile does not really “gleam” in the light. This is due to this translucency. While other cosmetic dentistry materials, such as the composite resin used in dental bonding, reflect light off of their surfaces, porcelain comes closest to mimicking the properties of natural enamel.

Another benefit to porcelain is its strength. While the porcelain used in, say, dinnerware may be somewhat fragile, high-quality porcelain, when concentrated in a very thin sheath, is remarkably strong. Indeed, porcelain veneers can last for a decade or even longer with proper maintenance.

Finally, porcelain is highly stain resistant. In fact, many people who are fitted with porcelain veneers find that their surrounding teeth begin to lose some of their natural luster while their veneers remain pristine. Luckily, when this happens, professional teeth whitening can be used to restore the surrounding natural teeth to their optimal vibrancy. Likewise, porcelain crowns can be attached to the side and back teeth to create a completely uniform smile.

Dr. Peter Rubinstein uses only the highest-grade porcelain in crafting veneers for his patients. If you would like to learn more about porcelain veneers, contact Dr. Rubinstein’s Manhattan, New York cosmetic dentistry practice.