If you are missing teeth or have a smile you would otherwise like to enhance, you might wonder if dental veneers are worth it. Dental veneers can be an excellent option for chipped, cracked, and other unsightly teeth, but they have their pros and cons. It's best to discuss the possibility of veneers with your dental provider. Depending on your goals and other various factors, dental veneers may or may not be worth it for you.
The Advantages of Dental Veneers
Veneers have many advantages, including the following:
- Durability: You can count on veneers to be strong and durable.
- Resist Stains: Veneers also resist many stains and are an excellent option for covering teeth that can't be whitened.
- Protect teeth: Veneers cover the front of the teeth, helping to protect them from sugars, acids, and harmful bacteria.
- Quick installation: Veneers can generally be completed in one to two visits at our office.
- Low maintenance: Veneers don't create extra areas or crevices where you need to clean. In fact, many times, they cover those up, making your teeth easier to clean.
With veneers, your bite stays the same, and your teeth look and feel natural.
The Drawbacks of Dental Veneers
Like all treatment options, dental veneers also have some drawbacks, including:
- Expense: Some veneers can run up to $2000 per tooth.
- Can crack or chip: Porcelain veneers can crack or chip, and composite veneers can crack, chip, or stain.
- Permanency: Once you have veneers, you can't ever go back to your natural teeth. Veneers can be removed; however, your teeth will look different without them and may be weaker and more sensitive.
- Sensitivity: Veneers can cause tooth sensitivity for the underlying or surrounding teeth.
- Aren't right for every tooth: Porcelain veneers are not designed for weak, decaying, or significantly fractured teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Veneers
What Should I Ask My Prosthodontist Before Getting Veneers?
Before moving forward with veneers as a treatment option, it's crucial to ask your prosthodontist a few questions, such as:
- Can you provide examples of other cases of veneers they have done, specifically cases similar to mine?
- How many patients have you treated with veneers?
- Do you use a dental lab that specializes in cosmetic dental veneers
- Will they show you what your veneers will look like before they are permanently placed?
Will I Need Gum Contouring?
Sometimes, contouring the gums after placing veneers will give a better cosmetic outcome. This creates symmetry and makes short teeth appear longer. Most gum contouring causes no additional discomfort during or after treatment. On rare occasions, surgical contouring must be done if the teeth are very short. You should see a periodontist for this type of procedure.
Learn More About Dental Veneers with The Smile Architects
Let the dental professionals at The Smile Architects determine if you are a candidate for dental veneers. They can perform a complete oral exam, discuss your goals for dental treatments, and provide you with the best options for your smile, situation, and budget. Call 704-875-1621 today to schedule an appointment.