Are Veneers Worth It?

If you are unhappy with your smile, veneers are an excellent way to correct discolored or damaged teeth. Veneers are custom made thin covers that go over the front of your teeth and improve their appearance. They can fix gaps as well as misshaped teeth. Depending on the type of veneer, they can last between five to fifteen years. Many patients enjoy the improved smile and confidence they get from veneers.

Pros and cons of veneers

Before deciding if this procedure is right for you, it is important to weigh the pros and cons.

Pros of veneers

Often made of porcelain, veneers provide a natural tooth appearance and are stain resistant. You can get a veneer to replace a discolored or damaged tooth or correct the entire mouth.

Once in place, the color of a veneer cannot be changed. There is no need to worry about discoloration or whitening. The porcelain retains its color and does not tarnish like normal teeth.

Veneers are a great way to treat worn enamel. Over time, abrasive cleaners or acidic foods wear down enamel and leave your teeth susceptible to stains.

Minor orthodontic problems like crooked teeth or gaps can also be hidden by veneers.

Cons of veneers

You cannot reverse this procedure since your dentist will shave a small amount of enamel to cement the custom-made shell to the tooth.

This process can increase tooth sensitivity. It also makes it necessary to replace the veneer if damaged.

Veneers are not options for those with unhealthy teeth, decay, active gum disease or with a habit of grinding their teeth.

Veneers procedure

The process usually requires three trips to the dentist. The first trip consists of a consultation to determine what the goal is and how to go about achieving it. X-rays will be taken at this stage to ensure oral health and whether veneers are an appropriate solution.

The next two trips are to prepare to make the veneers and then to apply them. The dentist will shave off a small layer, about half of a millimeter, of the tooth enamel before taking an impression. That impression is then sent to a lab that will create the veneers. At the final appointment, the dentist installs the veneers. The final process takes approximately two hours but can be longer if you receive an anesthetic.

Should you get veneers?

Ultimately, it is up to you to decide whether or not getting veneers is worth it. When making your decision, It is important to weigh the pros and cons of veneers before committing to this irreversible cosmetic procedure. You should also consider the way the veneers procedure works.

Contact your dentist to discuss your goals and see if veneers will help restore your smile. If you do not have a dentist, then call our office to discuss treatment. We will be happy to explain anything in further detail and answer any questions.

Are you considering veneers in the St. George area? Get more information at https://www.stgeorgedentalcare.com.