Dental Veneers: What are the pros and cons?
Dental veneers have gained popularity in recent years as a preferred method of improving the appearance of teeth and creating more attractive smiles. Celebrities, influencers, and many others with “insta-worthy” pearly whites have veneers to thank for their megawatt smiles. See a ‘perfect’ smile on social media? Chances are, veneers play a part - and for good reason! As a cosmetic dentistry procedure, dental veneers offer significant advantages for anyone looking to correct or improve cosmetic dental issues.
At WoodSprings Dentistry, our dentists (particularly Dr. Samantha Tejada; read her story here) are passionate about helping people enjoy a lifetime of healthy, confident smiles, which includes understanding all the benefits and potential side effects dental procedures may bring. But let’s start with the basics of dental veneers before talking about the pros and cons.
About Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are a cosmetic procedure that attaches thin pieces of tooth-colored porcelain to the front surfaces of your natural teeth. The treatment creates symmetry, covers imperfections or damage, and can be used independently or in conjunction with additional procedures for a complete smile makeover.
Are veneers right for everyone? Most people can enjoy the benefits of dental veneers. Continue reading to learn more about the pros and cons of dental veneers, then schedule a consultation with the dentists at WoodSprings Dentistry for a complete evaluation and treatment plan. Our dentists want to help every patient make informed choices and achieve their health and aesthetic goals.
Pros and Cons of Dental Veneers
Pro #1: Dental Veneers are a great choice to fix many minor cosmetic problems
Dental veneers offer a versatile way to improve the appearance of your smile. As a purely cosmetic procedure, dental veneers focus on addressing visual imperfections, including:
Gaps or other minor orthodontic problems
Severely stained teeth
Broken or chipped teeth
Small or misshapen teeth
How do veneers help with orthodontic issues? Veneers can camouflage minor orthodontic problems by allowing the dentist to cover and correct gaps or symmetry concerns without the more expensive and time-consuming use of braces or aligners. Veneers are also a great choice to correct other minor cosmetic problems such as covering small chips and cracks. For discolored or severely stained teeth, porcelain veneers offer an easy way to whiten and brighten your smile. And unlike natural teeth, veneers are also stain-resistant! Veneers are stain resistant, so you will no longer have to worry about coffee and tea stains and you can forgo those regular teeth whitening sessions.
Con: VENEERS DO Not Replace the Need for Orthodontic or Restorative Dentistry
Although veneers can address minor cosmetic issues, certain cosmetic dentistry conditions require additional treatment or may require restorative care prior to cosmetic procedures. In cases of severe misalignment or an overbite, the dentist may recommend clear aligners or more complete orthodontic care prior to the application of dental veneers. Dental veneers also should not be placed on unhealthy teeth or gums. Patients who are suffering from any underlying dental concerns should undergo a thorough evaluation and consultation for a complete dental treatment plan in order to maximize the benefits of porcelain veneers and a smile makeover.
Pro #2: VENEERS CAN Replace Damaged Enamel
Tooth enamel is very strong, however, years of use slowly wear down and weakens the protective layer of your teeth. Tooth enamel is lost gradually through everyday activities such as using abrasive toothpaste or erosion from acidic food and drink. Acid reflux is also a culprit of enamel erosion. Once lost, enamel does not grow back. Veneers are a great option to replace lost tooth enamel. Veneers are strong and long-lasting. With proper oral hygiene, they can last for many years.
Con: THE PROCEDURE May Cause Sensitivity Temporarily
Though a temporary side effect, some patients may experience sensitivity for several days after receiving dental veneers. The sensitivity results from the prep required for the procedure. To apply veneers, the dentist removes approximately 1 mm of the tooth’s enamel to create a proper fit. The removal of this enamel may cause sensitivity to hot or cold food and drinks for a few days.
Pro #3: Dental Veneers are Considered a Permanent Fix
Porcelain veneers are a permanent way to improve your smile. This cosmetic procedure is considered permanent because the dentist will be changing the structure of your teeth to apply the veneer. Porcelain veneers are created from strong, durable materials. Maintaining great oral care and regular dental check-ups will improve the longevity of your veneer teeth.
Con: VENEERS ARE AN Irreversible TREATMENT and Will Require Upkeep
Porcelain veneers are fabricated from a long-lasting material but, like natural teeth, are still susceptible to wear and damage. Proper care and hygiene habits are just as important with veneers as with natural teeth in order to prevent premature deterioration. Bad habits, such as chewing ice, biting fingernails or using teeth as a tool, can chip or break a veneer. Patients who clench or grind their teeth may not be a good candidate for dental veneers without protective or preventative measures in place. In some cases, the dentist may recommend wearing a night guard to protect the veneers from clenching or grinding at night.
Do the pros of dental veneers outweigh the cons?
Yes. For patients who are good candidates for dental veneers and are looking for a dramatic smile transformation, veneers are an excellent cosmetic dentistry option. Dental veneers are a long-term, low-maintenance way to hide discolored, crooked, or damaged teeth. Ultimately, as with every dental treatment or procedure, patients should consult with a trusted dentist to explore the possibilities and make informed choices.
If you are looking for dental veneers in The Woodlands or Spring, TX, book an appointment at WoodSprings Dentistry today. Our dentists take the time to thoroughly evaluate your dental health and aesthetic goals in order to find out if dental veneers are the right fit for you.