Dental veneers are increasingly becoming a popular option for many looking to update the appearance of their teeth. As an incredibly versatile treatment, veneers offer numerous benefits and this article provides the information you need to make an informed decision about whether or not it is the right cosmetic solution for your needs.
This article will discuss the different types of veneers available, how the process works, and some possible risks associated with them.
What are Dental Veneers and What Kind of Issues do they Solve?
Dental veneers are wafer-thin shells that can be affixed on the front side of teeth to improve one’s appearance. These shells are made of a strong and durable composite or porcelain material, which means they can last for many years when cared for properly.
They solve issues such as worn enamel, gaps between teeth, cracked and chipped teeth, discoloration, and uneven or irregularly shaped teeth. With dental veneers, patients have the opportunity to improve their smiles without traditional orthodontic treatments or braces.
Related post: Aligners Vs Veneers.
Types of Veneers
Composite Veneers
This is the most cost-effective material for veneers that can normally be placed in one treatment which reduces the need for additional appointments. This type of veneer also requires less tooth preparation than other types and costs about half the price of porcelain veneers.
Although this type of veneer is affordable it is also the most likely to stain or chip and has a lifespan of around five years.
See our article: Cheaper Option to Veneers.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are normally chosen by patients who wish to have alterations to their teeth or change their shape.
They are thinner compared to other types and are the ones that have the most natural aesthetic appearance. These veneers should last around fifteen years if cared for correctly.
It is useful to note that these are the most expensive veneers and unlike other types if they are cracked or broken they cannot be repaired so you will incur the expense of having to replace them.
Removable Veneers
Also known as snap-on veneers, these can be removed when needed much as a mouthguard can be.
Removable veneers come in two styles – prefabricated and custom-made. According to Colgate the prefabricated sets do not take any consideration to your bite or teeth placement and are therefore the cheapest and least durable. Custom-made sets involve an impression of your teeth being taken and therefore have a more precise fit.
Teeth Veneers Pros and Cons
Noninvasive Compared to Other Treatment Types
Veneers are an ideal solution for many individuals seeking to enhance the look of their smiles without needing a more complicated invasive treatment, such as braces. Not only are they non-invasive, but veneers also require little preparation and can be completed quickly with minimal discomfort, offering great results with minimum time investment.
Natural Look
Veneers offer a highly aesthetic solution to people looking to improve the appearance of their teeth. They provide a natural-looking result that blends in well with existing teeth, boosting confidence and allowing people to feel comfortable in any situation they find themselves in.
Easy to Maintain
Not only do veneers offer an aesthetically pleasing look, but caring for them is essentially no different than caring for natural teeth. General brushing, flossing, and regular dental appointments to check that the veneer’s adhesive is still secure should be all that is necessary to keep them looking their best.
Quick Way to Improve Your Smile
Veneers are a quick and effective method to achieve a beautiful, natural-looking smile. They allow patients to instantly brighten their look, cover permanent stains or chips on the front of the teeth, or even change the length and shape of teeth that are no longer aesthetically pleasing.
See our article: Aligners Vs Veneers.
No Special Diet Required
Unlike braces, veneers don’t require you to make vast alterations to your diet and won’t dictate what types of food you can or can’t consume daily. Instead, veneers are completely free from dietary restrictions, allowing you to care for them in the same ways that you have cared for your teeth before getting them.
Long-lasting Effect
With proper care and maintenance, veneers can last up to fifteen years or more, giving you that perfect smile for many years to come.
Moreover, veneers stay in place for a longer duration compared to traditional dental treatments such as dental bonding even with daily use.
Can Crack or Stain
Veneers are prone to cracking or staining with time, just like natural teeth. To avoid these issues, it’s important to take good care of your veneers by brushing twice daily and avoiding habits like nail-biting or grinding your teeth at night.
Properly maintained veneers should last for many years without issue.
Teeth Can be More Sensitive
The installation of veneers requires the removal of some enamel, which can increase the individual’s susceptibility to temperature sensitivity. If the person encounters this issue, seeking assistance is critical to assess the need for pain relief and whether an adjustment in the veneer placement is necessary.
Do Not Change Teeth Color
It is important to note that veneers do not actually change the color of teeth but instead enhance their natural hue and brightness. They offer a conservative treatment option that allows you to quickly and effectively brighten your smile while preserving the original proportion and texture of your teeth.
Only For Cosmetic Issues
Veneers are only effective for cosmetic issues such as discoloration, spacing, chips, and cracks. They will not fix larger underlying dental issues like decay or structural problems.
Are Dental Veneers a Good Idea?
Dental veneers are a great option for those who want to make small changes to their smile, such as changes in the color or size of teeth.
They can make a big difference aesthetically, creating the appearance of perfect teeth and ultimately giving a person greater confidence when it comes to their appearance.
However, dental veneers should not be used as a substitute for dental treatments dealing with major issues affecting the structure or health of the teeth.
For instance, if you need to fix cavities or gum disease, veneers won’t address them at all.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does Veneer Treatment Take?
Veneer treatment usually takes two appointments, the first involves an analysis of your teeth and impressions being taken, and the second the fitting. There may be a couple of weeks between appointments.
Do Veneers Hurt?
While veneers usually require some minor alteration of the surface of teeth during the application, proper care is taken to ensure minimal pain and discomfort.
Anesthetics are typically used to numb any areas which may require reshaping, and some people also opt for conscious sedation methods for added comfort.
Depending on the specifics of each procedure, visible results and full recovery can be expected within a short period after treatment with little or no lingering pain.
Can Veneers Be Removed?
Veneers are generally a permanent dental treatment option. That being said, should you wish to remove veneers, it is possible so long as the damage is not severe.
A dental professional can help determine if the veneer can be taken off and if so, how easy or difficult this process may be. This assessment is based on the overall health of your mouth and teeth as well as the type of bonding used when initially installing the veneer.
Can Cavities Occur with Veneers?
While veneers can protect teeth from becoming damaged, cavities may still occur in neighboring teeth. This is because the veneer doesn’t seal off the entire area, just a portion of it. Beyond this, plaque and bacteria can still build up in the area between the veneer and the natural tooth, resulting in cavities or other dental problems.
