The Pros and Cons of Getting Dental Veneers - An In-Depth Guide

What are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers, also sometimes called porcelain veneers, are thin shells made of porcelain or resin composite material that are bonded to the front surface of teeth. Veneers are custom-made for each patient and are used to improve the appearance of teeth that are stained, chipped, unevenly spaced, misshapen, or have gaps between them.

Common Uses of Veneers

There are many reasons why someone may choose to get dental veneers, including:

• Masking stained or discolored teeth that don't respond to professional whitening treatments or at-home whitening products
• Hiding chips or cracks in the teeth
• Correcting crooked or uneven teeth
• Closing small gaps between the teeth
• Replacing old metal dental fillings that are visible and unsightly when smiling
• Protecting the tooth surface for people who have worn enamel due to bruxism (teeth grinding) or other conditions
• Restoring an improved appearance for cosmetic reasons if someone is unhappy with the look of their smile

The Pros of Dental Veneers

They Provide an Instant Smile Makeover

One of the biggest pros associated with dental veneers is that they allow for fast smile transformations, giving patients dramatic improvements in the look of their teeth in just a few dental visits. In some cases where no tooth preparation is needed prior to placement, veneers can even be done in a single visit.

Veneers Can Improve Smile Aesthetics

Veneers are custom designed and fabricated to cover flaws and improve the appearance of the teeth they are attached to. They can mask a variety of imperfections for patients unhappy with the look of their smiles, whether that involves chips, gaps, stains, or crooked teeth.

They Are Stain-Resistant

The porcelain and composite resin materials used for dental veneers are stain-resistant. This means they won't yellow like natural tooth enamel can over time. People who get veneers can enjoy whiter, brighter smiles that stay that way longer.

Minimally Invasive Option

In many cases, getting veneers does not require aggressive tooth reduction prior to placement. This makes them a more conservative and minimally invasive approach compared to options like dental crowns which require more tooth removal to accommodate their placement.

Veneers Can Strengthen Teeth

While dental veneers are mostly done for cosmetic reasons, the bonding process can also help protect damaged teeth and make them stronger. Veneers can shield vulnerable teeth from fractures and further decay.

The Cons of Dental Veneers

Tooth Preparation May Still Be Needed

While veneers are considered a minimally invasive treatment option, some amount of tooth reduction before placement may still be necessary. This permanent removal of outer tooth structure prior to bonding veneers could lead to tooth sensitivity and nerve damage risks in some cases.

Higher Cost of Treatment

The costs associated with dental veneers may be prohibitive for some patients. Veneers can range from $925 - $2,500 per tooth. They also may not be covered by some dental insurance plans since they are primarily a cosmetic treatment.

Potential Damage and Shorter Longevity

Although durable, dental veneers could chip or break if subjected to heavy biting forces. Their average lifespan is 5-10 years, which is less than other restoration options. Improper care could also damage veneers.

Difficult or Expensive to Remove or Repair

While veneers are meant to last many years, if they ever need to be repaired or replaced, the process can be challenging and expensive. Since they require bonding to the underlying tooth, safely removing them without causing further tooth damage is difficult.

May Require Replacement of Fillings

Patients who already have dental fillings or crowns on their front teeth may need to have those restorations replaced with new fillings and dental veneers for an optimal, uniform appearance. This adds to the cost and invasiveness of treatment.

Could Lead to Dental Sensitivity

Preparing the teeth for veneers and the bonding process itself may in some cases expose dentin tubules and nerve endings, making teeth sensitive to hot and cold temperatures after treatment. Sensitivity may be temporary, but could also persist long-term.

Ideal Candidates for Dental Veneers

The best candidates for porcelain or composite resin veneers include patients who:

• Have mildly to moderately crooked, chipped, worn, or misshapen teeth
• Have untreated tooth decay or other oral health problems
• Don't have issues with bruxism (teeth grinding)
• Have healthy gums and relatively well-aligned jaws/bite
• Have realistic expectations about the results veneers can achieve

Caring for Dental Veneers

While dental veneers are designed to last for many years, patients need to practice good oral hygiene and proper care to achieve their maximum lifespan. Recommendations for caring for veneers include:

• Brushing gently twice per day with non-abrasive toothpaste
• Flossing once daily, taking care not to snap the floss on the veneers
• Seeing the dentist every 6 months for exams and professional cleanings
• Avoiding biting nails or chewing on hard objects
• Wearing a nightguard if you grind your teeth

When to Consider Alternatives to Dental Veneers

While veneers are a great option for many patients looking to improve their smiles, there are some cases where alternative treatments may be better suited, such as:

• Patients with severely crooked or crowded teeth: Orthodontics like braces or Invisalign tend to work better in these cases.
• Individuals with bruxism or teeth grinding: The heavy biting forces could damage veneers. A night guard is recommended first.
• People with decay, gum disease, oral infections: These underlying problems need to be treated first before veneers.
• Cases where teeth may still erupt: If wisdom teeth or other teeth might still come in, wait until the mouth is fully mature.
• Patients wanting to avoid removing any natural tooth structure: Options like orthodontics or whitening/bleaching may be preferable.

Consulting a Dentist about Veneers

Anyone considering getting dental veneers should first have a consultation with their dentist to discuss whether they make sense for their unique situation. Be sure to address topics like:

• Goals and motivations for treatment
• A review of your full medical and dental history
• An oral exam to check for underlying problems needing treatment first
• Evaluation of the current state of your teeth and bite
• A discussion about preparation requirements for veneer placement
• Information on alternative options besides veneers
• Costs and insurance coverage information
• Instructions for caring for veneers long-term

With professional guidance tailored to your needs and priorities, you can determine if dental veneers are the right choice for improving the look of your smile.

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.