Porcelain Veneers in Lakewood, CO - Weighing the Pros and Cons

The Pros of Porcelain Veneers

Here are some of the benefits that make porcelain veneers a popular cosmetic dental treatment:

Improve the Look of Your Smile

The main advantage of veneers is the dramatic improvement they can provide in your smile's appearance. Veneers mask chips, cracks, gaps, stains and other flaws you may be self-conscious about. They create an even, bright white smile.

Correct Crooked or Gapped Teeth

Veneers can fix minor misalignments and close small gaps between teeth. They provide a straighter, more uniform look without the need for orthodontics.

Replace Old Restorations

Over time, dental work like crowns or fillings can become stained, chipped or mismatched against your natural teeth. New veneers can replace these restorations for a more uniform, natural look.

Strengthen Weak Teeth

Veneers reinforce thin, weak or damaged teeth. The ceramic shells add thickness and durability to protect teeth from future fracture or damage.

Whitening Effects

Veneers can brighten your smile several shades to give you a dramatic whitening result. Teeth enamel is slightly translucent, so the white veneer underneath will shine through.

Minimally Invasive

Veneers require removing just a thin layer (0.5-0.7mm) of enamel. This is less invasive than crowns, which require more aggressive tooth reduction to accommodate their thickness.

Quick Treatment Time

It takes just 2-3 dental visits to complete veneers. A single crown takes longer, since two appointments are needed to take impressions, create temporary crowns and cement the permanent ones.

Long-Lasting Results

With proper care, veneers can last 10-15 years or longer before needing to be replaced. Their longevity makes them a good value for the cost.

The Cons of Porcelain Veneers

While veneers have many benefits, there are also some downsides to consider:

Tooth Reduction

Prepping teeth for veneers does require some removal of natural tooth structure. This is irreversible, though minimal for veneers.

Higher Cost

Veneers cost $925-$2,500 per tooth so are more expensive than direct composite bonding. Check your dental insurance, as coverage is limited.

Temporary Sensitivity

Your teeth may be sensitive to hot and cold for a few days after veneer placement as you adjust to the new restorations.

Challenges Keeping White

Staining drinks like coffee, tea and wine can discolor veneer edges over time. Proper oral hygiene is key for maintaining a white smile.

Risk of Damage

Veneers are thin and brittle, so may chip or crack if exposed to heavy biting forces. Avoiding hard foods and grinding can help prevent damage.

Not a Permanent Fix for Alignment

While veneers can fix minor crookedness, they won't permanently correct more substantial alignment issues. Orthodontics or clear aligners are more effective for this.

Ideal Candidates for Porcelain Veneers

The right candidate for veneers typically has:

• Mild to moderate staining, chips, gaps or other cosmetic flaws affecting the teeth
• Well-aligned teeth with minor overlap or crowding only
• Sufficient enamel thickness for minimal prep
• Overall good oral health and hygiene habits
• Realistic expectations about the results

Preparing for Veneer Placement

The veneer process involves several steps to ensure you get beautifully transformative results:

Initial Consultation

Meet with your Lakewood dentist to discuss your smile goals and see if you are a good candidate. Digital smile imaging may be used to preview potential results.

Teeth Impressions

Impressions will be taken of your teeth so custom veneers can be fabricated at an offsite dental lab.

Tooth Preparation

A small amount of enamel will be removed to accommodate the veneer shells. Local anesthesia is used to keep you comfortable.

Temporary Veneers

Temporary veneers will be placed to protect your prepped teeth while the permanent veneers are being made.

Try-In Visit

You'll return to "try in" the veneers to ensure proper fit, shape and shade before they are bonded.

Bonding Appointment

At your final visit, your natural teeth will be conditioned and the veneers will be carefully bonded into place for a seamless look and feel.

Caring for Your New Smile

Once your new porcelain veneers are in place, follow these tips to protect your investment:

• Avoid biting your fingernails or other hard objects
• Cut harder foods like apples into small pieces before eating
• Use a nightguard if you grind your teeth
• Brush gently along the gumline to remove plaque
• See your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings

Finding a Cosmetic Dentist in Lakewood, CO

The success of your veneers depends heavily on the skill and experience of the cosmetic dentist you choose. Look for an experienced Lakewood dentist with advanced training in smile makeovers and veneers. View online photo galleries to evaluate the aesthetics of their veneer work. Consider reviews from past patients.

Schedule consultations to discuss your case and view before and after photos. Be sure you are comfortable with the dentist and confident they can deliver the transformative results you want. With the right dentist, porcelain veneers can greatly improve your smile's appearance.

Are Porcelain Veneers Right for You?

Porcelain veneers offer many benefits for enhancing your smile, but also involve some downsides to consider. Think about your specific cosmetic dental needs and concerns. Veneers work best for mild alignment or aesthetic issues affecting the visible front teeth. Those with extensive tooth decay, gum disease or severe crowding may not be ideal candidates.

Discuss your options with an experienced cosmetic dentist in Lakewood, CO. They can advise you if veneers are suited to your particular situation. If veneers are recommended, be sure you understand the procedure, cost and care requirements before proceeding. With the right preparation and expert dentist, veneers can give you the stunning, confident smile youve always wanted.

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.