Philosophy of Esthetic Dentistry

Recolor: The first option is tooth whitening.

Reposition: The second option is orthodontic repositioning.

Recontour: The third option is to recontour teeth and equilibrate.

Restore: Once the above options have been explored, the last option is to restore the teeth with veneers or crowns.

Advantages of veneers include:

• Minimal tooth preparation required

• Porcelain veneers are stronger and more durable than composite veneers

• Alternative to full coverage restoration in case of incisal fractures or tooth discoloration

• Color stability

Disadvantages of veneers include:

• Potential for over-contouring

• Requires laboratory procedures

• Porcelain enamel margins may be thin and difficult to finish

• Brittle margins

• Pitting by acidulated fluoride treatment

• Cannot be repaired easily

• Can sometimes be difficult to temporize

• Color cannot be altered substantially after placement

• Placement is difficult and time-consuming