Do Veneers Wreck Your Teeth?
Dental veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or resin composite that are bonded to the front surface of teeth. Getting veneers is an increasingly popular way to improve the appearance of teeth that are discolored, chipped, misshapen or have gaps between them.
But there is an ongoing debate about whether the pros of getting veneers outweigh the cons. While veneers can dramatically improve the look of your smile, placing this permanent covering on healthy teeth is not a decision that should be taken lightly.
Evaluating the Pros of Dental Veneers
There are several advantages that make veneers an attractive choice for improving the appearance of your teeth:
- Veneers can cover stains or discoloration that regular bleaching products cannot
- They create even, uniform tooth appearance by masking chips, gaps, and misshapen teeth
- The dental porcelain used for veneers reflects light well for a bright, white smile
- High-quality veneers are very strong and long-lasting, with proper care
- Getting veneers typically requires removing less natural tooth than other restorations
- The process for getting veneers is relatively quick compared to other options
Considering the Cons of Dental Veneers
However, there are some downsides to weigh when deciding if veneers are right for you:
- Preparing the teeth for veneers removes some natural tooth enamel
- They are expensive, usually running $900 to $2,500 per tooth
- The treated teeth may be more sensitive for a period of time
- Chipped or damaged veneers cannot be repaired, only replaced
- Good oral hygiene is critical for long-lasting veneers
- Inappropriate veneer placement can look artificial
Key Factors When Considering Veneers
There are a few important considerations that can help determine if veneers are a sound choice for you:
- Your oral health - Cavities, leaking fillings, and gum disease must be treated before getting veneers
- Your teeth alignment - Correctly positioned teeth support long-lasting veneers
- Your grind or clench - These habits put extra stress on veneers that may damage them
- Your desired results - Talk to your dentist about realistic outcomes from veneers
- An experienced cosmetic dentist - Their skill greatly affects the look and longevity of veneers
Caring for Your Veneers
If you get dental veneers, taking excellent care of them and your overall oral health helps prevent costly repairs or replacements down the road. Be diligent about:
- Brushing twice a day
- Flossing once daily
- Seeing your dentist for cleanings every 6 months
- Avoiding chewing hard items like ice or nails
- Wearing a nightguard if you grind your teeth
Are Dental Veneers Right for You?
While veneers offer a fast way to transform your smile, they do come with some risk of tooth sensitivity and permanent enamel removal. Work closely with an experienced cosmetic dentist to decide if veneers will achieve the results you want without unnecessary long-term damage to your teeth.
FAQs
Do veneers look natural?
High quality dental veneers made by a skilled cosmetic dentist can look very natural. The porcelain covers made to precisely fit your teeth can match the shape, size and color of your natural teeth. But veneers that are too opaque or not properly contoured can seem artificial.
How long do dental veneers last?
With proper oral care and avoidance of tooth grinding, quality dental veneers can last 10-15 years or longer before needing replacement. Smoking, poor hygiene, clenched teeth and hard chewing can shorten their lifespan.
Do you have to shave down teeth for veneers?
Yes, preparing the teeth for veneers involves some permanent removal of outer enamel to allow space for the thin porcelain covers. But modern preparation techniques remove only .3-.5mm, far less tooth structure loss than older methods.
Can veneers be repaired if damaged?
No, dental veneers cannot be repaired if chipped or cracked. The only option is to fully replace the damaged veneer. Protecting veneers from heavy biting forces, grinding, and trauma can help prevent fractures or debris that require replacement.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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