Are you considering getting veneers for your teeth? Veneers are an increasingly famous cosmetic dentistry option that can help give you a beautiful and confident smile. But as with any dental work, the advantages and disadvantages of dental veneers should be considered before deciding. In this blog post, we’ll explore the veneers teeth pros and cons, so you can determine if they’re right for you.
Overview of Veneers
Dental veneers are lean shells made of composite resin or porcelain placed on the teeth’ surface to improve their appearance. They are custom-made to exactly match your natural teeth structure, shape, size, and colour. Veneers cover up a variety of imperfections, such as discolouration, chips, cracks, gaps between teeth, and minor misalignments. They help improve the overall look of the teeth, but they can also provide some functional benefits, such as strengthening weak teeth.
Types of Veneers
Types of Veneers
There are two commonly used types of veneers: porcelain and composite. Porcelain veneers are more popular because of their durability and natural appearance. They are more resistant to stains than composite veneers and can last up to 10 to 15 years with proper care.
On the other hand, composite veneers are more affordable and can be completely done in a single visit, but they are less durable than porcelain veneers.
The Veneers Procedure
Getting veneers usually involves two visits to the dentist. During the initial visit, your dental consultant will check your teeth and take impressions to create custom veneers. A thin layer of enamel might be extracted from the teeth to adjust the veneers. Next, your dentist will attach temporary veneers while the actual dental veneers are being fabricated in a dental lab. The final visit involves removing the temporary veneers and cementing the permanent ones onto your teeth.
Pros of Getting Veneers
In this section, we’ll explore the pros of getting veneers and why they might be the perfect option for you.
Veneers are a quick and customisable fix
Being relatively quick and easy to install is one of the benefits of getting dental veneers. Sometimes, your dentist can prep your teeth and fit your veneers in just two appointments. And unlike other procedures that require a lot of time and work, dental veneers can be customised to fit your unique teeth’ shape, size, and colour. This means you can achieve a natural-looking smile that enhances your facial features and complements your style.
Veneers can fix a range of dental issues
Another quality of veneers is that they can address a wide range of dental issues. From chips and cracks to stains and misalignments, veneers can hide or correct most imperfections that affect your teeth’s appearance. This makes them an all-in-one solution that can save you the hassle and expense of undergoing multiple treatments. Plus, veneers are durable and resistant to staining, so they can stay durable for a long time when properly maintained.
Veneers can boost your confidence and well-being
The most significant pro of getting dental veneers is the boost they can give to your confidence and well-being. You are more likely to smile more if you love your smile, which can reduce stress, delight you, and make you feel more approachable and friendly to others.
Additionally, having a beautiful smile can increase your self-esteem and make you more comfortable in social situations, helping you to achieve your personal and professional goals.
Veneers can help you maintain your oral health
While dental veneers are primarily designed for cosmetic purposes, they can also offer some benefits for your oral health. For example, dental veneers can cover and protect teeth weakened by decay or erosion, reducing the risk of further damage or tooth loss. Additionally, dental veneers can improve your bite and alignment, making it easier to chew, speak, and maintain good dental hygiene habits.
Veneers are a low-risk and reversible procedure
Finally, it’s worth noting that getting veneers is generally a low-risk procedure. This means that if you’re unsatisfied with your veneers or experience any complications, your dentist can remove them without causing permanent damage to your teeth. Of course, choosing an experienced and reputable dentist who can guide you through the decision-making process is crucial and ensure you’re a good candidate for veneers.
Cons of Getting Veneers
In this section, we’ll explore the potential downsides of veneers, so you can decide whether they’re right for you.
Veneers are not reversible
One of the significant downsides of porcelain veneers is that they’re an irreversible procedure. The process involves removing a tiny amount of teeth enamel to make room for the thin shells, which means you can only go back to your natural teeth if you’re satisfied with the results. Veneers typically last around ten years, after which you’ll need to replace them, so you must commit to maintaining them for the long haul.
Veneers can cause tooth sensitivity
Since getting veneers requires removing a small amount of tooth enamel, it can expose the underlying tooth structure, making your teeth more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. Although this sensitivity usually lasts for a few weeks, in rare cases, it can persist even after getting the veneers.
Veneers can be expensive
Veneers can be expensive
Another major con of veneers is that they can be expensive in case of multiple teeth and the complexity of your case.
Since veneers are generally considered cosmetic dental procedures, dental insurance may not cover the cost, so you’ll have to bear the cost yourself.
The average cost can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per tooth.
Veneers can require some adjustments
After getting veneers to adjust them comfortably in your mouth, you may need some adjustments. This can include reshaping your natural teeth, which can alter your bite and lead to discomfort. Moreover, dental veneers can become chipped or cracked over time, requiring repair or replacement, which can be inconvenient and costly.
Veneers can’t be used to fix all dental problems
While veneers can be the right solution for many dental issues, they’re unsuitable for every problem. For example, veneers may not be the right option if you have significant tooth decay, gum disease, or teeth grinding. It’s crucial to consult with your dentist to discuss your specific needs before choosing veneers.
Things to consider before getting veneers
Initially, it is crucial to ensure the treatment is right for you and your needs. Dental veneers may be the best choice for you if you have any underlying dental issues such as tooth decay or gum infection, and other treatments may need to be explored first.
Secondly, it is essential to make sure you find an experienced and reputable cosmetic dentist who can guide you on the right treatment option and provide quality care throughout the process.
It’s also essential to consider your lifestyle when making your decision, as veneers require regular maintenance and upkeep to ensure they last as long as possible.
Pre-Veneers Treatment To Get Optimal Results
There are several alternative cosmetic dental procedures if you don’t feel that porcelain veneers are not the right solution for you. These dental restoration treatments include teeth whitening, bonding, crowns, and orthodontics.
Teeth whitening is a great way to acquire a brighter and whiter smile without getting veneers. It is a relatively inexpensive and non-invasive procedure that involves applying a bleaching agent to the teeth to remove discolouration.
Bonding is another cosmetic dental procedure involving applying a composite resin to the front teeth to enhance their appearance. This solution is ideal for fixing minor chips, crooked teeth, cracks, and discolourations.
Crowns are popular for those with severely damaged teeth, large cavities or broken teeth. They can retrieve the function and appearance of your natural teeth while strengthening them and protecting them from further damage.
Orthodontics is another alternative to getting veneers which can be used for teeth straightening, closing gaps between teeth, and achieving a better overall bite. Invisalign is one of the most recommended options when it comes to orthodontics, as they are removed at any time as are virtually invisible.
Conclusion
With all of the pros and cons evaluated, it is easy to see that veneers can provide a positive experience for many patients. Veneers come in various shapes, sizes, materials, and colours to create a smile that fits you personally. Whether looking for a natural-looking result or an entirely customised look, veneers can be an excellent choice. That said, thoroughly research all available options for your specific condition before making any decisions and talk with your cosmetic dentist so that they can advise you on the best treatment plan – specifically tailored to your needs – ensuring you get the best possible outcome. If you want to learn more about veneer teeth solutions or want to discuss which type of veneer could work for you, we want you to contact us at (02) 9159 6237 or book an appointment online today.
References
The Pros and Cons of Dental Veneers – Dental Health Center
https://www.everydayhealth.com/dental-health/experts-pros-and-cons-of-veneers.aspx
Dental Veneers: Pros And Cons | Colgate®
https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/veneers/dental-veneers-pros-and-cons