The Pros and Cons of Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are growing in popularity as a solution to a number of cosmetic problems, but they also can be an excellent answer for repairing damaged teeth. These thin, custom-made porcelain covers are cemented to the surface of your tooth, which allows them to instantly transform your smile. They are permanent, however, so it is important to be fully informed before making the decision to get veneers.

How Veneer Procedures are Performed

The first thing you should know about veneers is how they are applied to your teeth. The process can take some time because your veneers will be custom-made to match your teeth. You can expect to make at least two visits for the procedure—one to take impressions and fit you for veneers, and one to apply them.

Here are the steps of the veneer process:

  1. Your dentist will remove a small amount of your existing teeth to allow a veneer to fit perfectly and naturally.
  2. Your dentist will take an impression of your teeth and send the impression to a dental laboratory, where the veneers will be created just for you.
  3. Your dentist will apply your custom veneers to your existing teeth with a permanent resin cement, leaving you with a new, natural-looking smile.

The Pros of Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are a versatile and simple way to address a wide variety of issues, including cosmetic ones. Here are some of the reasons your dentist may recommend veneers:

  • Veneers can easily whiten your teeth. As we age, it’s not unusual for our teeth to take on a yellow tint. Even the most careful dental hygiene routines can’t completely fight the effects of smoking, drinking coffee, and eating strongly-pigmented foods. While enamel can be bleached, the process may need to be repeated as stains return. Veneers are much more stain-resistant than your natural enamel, so they are much more worry-free if you want a bright smile.
  • Veneers are an effective solution for minor cosmetic issues. Do you have slightly crooked or gapped teeth you wish you could erase, but want to avoid the unsightly and slow process of braces? Veneers may be a solution for you, since they can be used to correct minor cosmetic issues. Your dentist can apply veneers to hide small imperfections, but be sure to learn about all your options. Veneers can be a very permanent solution to a problem that is more easily fixed.
  • Veneers can replace damaged enamel. If you’ve suffered from tooth damage or the issues caused by worn-down enamel, veneers may provide relief. Veneers are a possible treatment option for cracked and chipped teeth and enamel erosion. Because enamel doesn’t grow back, it needs to be replaced. Veneers are one option that can not only replace damaged enamel, but also improve the appearance of your teeth.

The Cons of Dental Veneers

Dental veneers can be used to fix a number of dental issues, but that doesn’t mean that they are completely free of drawbacks. Like any dental procedure, it is important to be well-informed on all aspects before proceeding. Here are some of the factors that can be an issue with dental veneers:

  • Dental veneers can be expensive. The cost will vary greatly, depending on your dentist, the work you need, and even the location where you live, but generally, veneers can be pricey. On average, according to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, a single veneer costs about $1,253.54. Discuss your financing options with your dentist before ruling out veneers completely.
  • Increased sensitivity can occur. Some people may experience tooth sensitivity after receiving veneers. Hot and cold temperatures can feel uncomfortable, but this discomfort should fade within a few days. Some patients may experience it for longer, and may require pain-relieving or sensitive dental care products, such as toothpastes designed to repair damaged enamel.
  • Dental veneers are a permanent procedure. Because your dentist will remove some of the structure of your tooth, it is impossible to reverse veneers. The outer layer of your enamel will be removed to make space for the veneer to sit properly on your tooth. If you are considering veneers but are still not sure you wish to commit to them, be sure to discuss your other options with your dentists to be sure that there isn’t a solution that is a better fit for your unique needs.

Veneers are a popular choice for many patients, since they are simple, natural-looking, and are a long-lasting solution. Whether they are right for you is a personal decision you should discuss with your dentist. Take the time to weigh the pros and cons before agreeing to a procedure.

Want to learn more about dental veneers and the other services our Austell cosmetic dentists offer? Then don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with our team at Austell Dental Associates. Our experienced dentists can help you and your family enjoy healthy, beautiful smiles.

Contact our offices by calling (770) 467-3888.

Categories

Trusted Family & Cosmetic Dentists

Contact Us Today to Schedule Your Dental Services
  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.