Should I get veneers for my teeth?

Veneers are one of the most popular forms of cosmetic dentistry. The treatment involves putting a simple custom-made shell over the teeth to cover up minor dental errors like chips, cracks, and discoloration. Because the procedure has results that can last up to 20 years, it is important to figure out whether or not you should get veneers for your teeth.

 

What are veneers?

Veneers are thin enamel shells for teeth made of composite resin or porcelain. They are small and designed to fit over the surface of your teeth without affecting the function. The majority of veneers need to be dentally bonded to the surface of your teeth so they don’t become displaced by regular activities like eating and chewing.

The two types of veneers are composite resin and porcelain. Composite resin and porcelain models are slightly different. Porcelain is slightly translucent and longer-lasting, while composite resin is more opaque. Over time, composite resin can also become discolored. However, the primary benefit of wearing resin veneers is that they can be manufactured directly in the office by your dentist without difficulty.

 

Why do people get them?

The majority of people see their dentist to get veneers because they have a problem with the aesthetics of their smile. Although social media, movies, and TV often depict people with perfect, even, and gleaming smiles, natural teeth do not look like that.

In fact, the majority of people have teeth that are yellowing, chipped, cracked, or uneven. These may not interfere in everyday life much but can dent your confidence. Many people feel very self-aware during public speaking, in professional situations, and even in their personal lives because of abnormalities with their teeth.

It’s why veneers are a simple and effective way of getting an enriching smile with the minimum of fuss.

 

Benefits of veneers

The primary benefit of wearing veneers is getting a clean, even, and gleaming smile without needing to undergo several smaller procedures. Typically, when someone has multiple cosmetic problems with their teeth, it can require multiple treatments like dental bonding, teeth whitening, and gum planing.

With veneers, you can avoid these small treatments and still get the smile you desire.

Another benefit of wearing veneers is their durability and longevity. Veneers are difficult to break unless you are chewing something tough like ice cubes or nuts. When applied correctly and maintained properly, the material is known to last for up to 20 years. Porcelain or composite resin is easy to brush and keep clean, plus it is not prone to tooth decay.

 

Read more

Best methods for teeth whitening | Get a smile makeover | Misconceptions about veneers

 

What is the process of getting veneers?

Receiving veneers is not a complex process. As the patient, you will not be expected to do any work beyond maintaining the health of the teeth and gums.

The first step is meeting with your dentist for a thorough exam and analysis. Veneers need to be applied to a healthy smile, so it is important to have no tooth decay or similar problems.

If you decide to move forward with the custom-made shells, your dentist will shave approximately 1/8 mm of enamel from the front surface of your teeth. This is necessary to create the space for the veneers to sit properly over your teeth.

Once the enamel is removed, a mould is made of your smile and sent to a dental lab. You return to your dentist in two weeks and have your teeth professionally cleaned. The dentist then bonds the veneers to the surface of your teeth.

 

How much do veneers cost?

Veneers are a relatively affordable investment. If you want to get the same results without veneers it will cost substantially more to get the multiple other treatments your teeth will need. The cost of veneers will vary due to a number of factors:

  • Procedures required to prepare your teeth for veneers
  • Cost of moulding enamel shells for each individual tooth
  • Whether you have chosen porcelain or resin veneers (porcelain costs more but can offer superior results and longevity)

 

Want to find out if veneers are covered under your dental insurance or health benefits? Speak to Dawson Dental.

 

Conclusion

For a professional opinion, speak to an experienced dentist near you. We offer mature and balanced advice, making sure your oral health is looked after.