The Pros and Cons of Having Dental Veneers: What You Need to Know Before Getting Them

Written by:

Dr. Justin Soon

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The Pros and Cons of Having Dental Veneers: What You Need to Know Before Getting Them

If you’re considering getting dental veneers to improve your smile, understanding the pros and cons of this type of treatment is essential.

In this post, we’ll discuss the benefits and drawbacks of dental veneers so that you can make an informed decision whether or not they’re right for you.

We’ll also provide answers to some questions you may have in mind. So if you’re curious about what dental veneers can offer, keep reading!

What Are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are wafer-thin shells bonded to the front surfaces of teeth. They are made of either composite or porcelain material and are ideal for people who want a smile makeover by getting rid of their dental imperfections.

There are several types of veneers, including:

  • Composite veneers:
    These are made of a tooth-coloured resin that is matched to the shade of your existing teeth. Composite resin veneers cost less than porcelain veneers, but they also don’t last as long.

  • Porcelain veneers:
    These are made of thin ceramic that is matched to the shade of your existing teeth. Traditional porcelain veneers are more durable and resistant to staining than composite veneers but are also more expensive.

  • Lumineers:
    These are a type of porcelain veneer which are very thin and don’t require the removal of any tooth enamel before placement. This makes them an excellent option for people who prefer minimal tooth preparation because they want to avoid damaging their existing teeth.

  • Removable veneers:
    These are made of thin, flexible plastic that can be removed and replaced as needed. They are the least costly type of veneer, but they also provide the least amount of protection for your teeth.

  • Palatal veneers:
    These are placed on the inside of tooth surfaces (the palatal surface) and can only be seen when you open your mouth wide. They are used to treat a number of dental conditions, including crowding, gaps between teeth, and misshapen teeth.

  • No-prep veneers:
    No-prep veneers are made of a thinner porcelain material than traditional veneers and don’t require the removal of any tooth structure before they are placed. This makes them a good option for people who want to avoid damaging their existing teeth.

The dental veneer procedure is usually done in two visits to the dentist.

First Visit

The first visit involves preparing the tooth by removing a small amount of natural tooth enamel. This is necessary to make room for the dental veneer.

Next, dental impressions are made of the teeth and sent off to a dental laboratory where the veneers will be made. Temporary veneers will be given while waiting for the final veneers.

Second Visit

The second dental visit involves placing the dental veneers on the teeth and making sure they fit properly. Once the dental veneers are in place, they can last for many years with proper care.

Dental veneers are a popular dental treatment – and for a good reason. They offer patients a good number of oral and dental benefits.

What Are the Pros of Getting Dental Veneers?

There are many advantages to getting dental veneers; we’ve listed just a few below. Dental veneers:

  • Can give you a beautiful, white smile.
  • Can be used to cover up stained or discoloured teeth.
  • Can be used to fill in gaps, chips, and breaks between the teeth.
  • Are very durable and long-lasting.
  • Are relatively easy to care for.

While dental veneers offer a lot of benefits for the wearer, there are also a few drawbacks that you should know about before you decide to get them.

What Are the Cons of Getting Dental Veneers?

Of course, you should be aware of a few disadvantages of veneers before making your decision. These include:

  • They can be quite expensive.
  • The traditional procedure is not reversible.
  • They may require multiple visits to the dentist.
  • Your natural teeth may be damaged in the process.
  • You may need to have your veneers replaced after a few years.

Despite the drawbacks, the benefits of dental veneers far outweigh their risks. If you are considering getting them, then be sure to consult with your dentist to see if they are right for you.

Why Should I Get Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers could be a good option if you are unhappy with the appearance of your teeth. They can give you a brighter, whiter smile and can help to improve the overall look of your teeth.

Veneers are an excellent way to address many aesthetic dental issues, including:

  • Tooth discolouration or staining:
    Normal teeth can stain or discolour over time. If you have discoloured or stained teeth that cannot be corrected with whitening, veneers can give you white teeth and a beautiful smile.

  • Gaps between teeth:
    Veneers can be used to close small gaps between teeth.

  • Misshapen or crooked teeth:
    Veneers can also address misaligned teeth by changing their shape, giving you a straighter, more uniform, and confident smile.

  • Worn down teeth:
    Teeth that are worn down because of tooth decay can be made to look longer and fuller with veneers.

  • Uneven teeth:
    Veneers can be used to change the size of teeth. If you have small or undersized teeth, veneers can give you a fuller, more proportional, and more appealing smile.

  • Chipped or Broken teeth:
    Veneers can also cover up and protect cracked, broken, or damaged teeth.

Are Dental Veneers Easy to Break?

The short answer to this question is no; dental veneers are not easy to break. In fact, they are quite durable and can last for many years with proper care.

However, it is important to remember that veneers are not indestructible. Despite their durable material, they can still chip or crack if they are hit hard enough, just like natural teeth.

Dental veneers may break if:

  • You bite down too hard on something hard, like a nutshell or ice
  • You accidentally hit your teeth on a hard surface
  • You use your teeth to open things, like bottles or packages

If you do break or chip a veneer, then you will need to see your dentist so that they can fix or replace the veneer. Veneers are not easy to fix at home, so it is important to see a professional if you have any problems with them.

Are Dental Veneers Safe?

In general, dental veneers are safe. The dental professionals have been using veneers for over 30 years, and they have a proven track record of safety and effectiveness.

Veneers are made of strong, durable materials that will last for many years with proper care. Additionally, dental veneers are custom-made to fit your individual teeth, so there is minimal risk of them coming loose or falling off.

However, as with any type of dental procedure, some risks are involved. These risks include:

Allergic reactions

Some people may be allergic to the materials used in dental veneers, such as tooth-coloured resin. If you are allergic to these materials, you should not get dental veneers.

Damage to natural teeth

In some cases, the dentist may damage your natural teeth when they remove a layer of tooth enamel to make room for the veneer. Damaged tooth enamel is more likely to happen if your teeth are already weak.

Gum disease

If you have gum disease, it is important to get it treated before getting dental veneers. This is because gum disease can cause the veneers to come loose.

Tooth sensitivity

Some people may experience tooth sensitivity after getting dental veneers. This is usually temporary and will go away on its own but tell your dentist if you have a concern about tooth sensitivity.

The best way to avoid these risks is to talk to your dentist about them before getting dental veneers. They will be able to tell you if you are a good candidate for the procedure and what you can do to reduce your risks.

Is It Worth It to Get Dental Veneers?

The answer will depend on each individual’s unique situation. For some people, veneers may be the best option for achieving a beautiful and healthy-looking smile.

However, not everyone is considered a good candidate for veneers. Before committing to veneers, it’s important to understand what dental veneers can and cannot do for your smile.

Dental veneers are used to cosmetically improve the appearance of your smile. If you have discoloured teeth, dental veneers may be worth considering. They can also be used to address uneven-sized and shaped teeth. For example, if you have chipped or broken teeth, dental veneers can help improve the appearance of your teeth and give you a perfect smile. Veneers can also be used to close gaps between teeth.

On the downside, dental veneers are an irreversible dental procedure. Once they are bonded to your teeth, they cannot be removed without damaging your natural tooth structure. In addition, dental veneers are not an excellent option if you have extensive dental decay or gum disease.

Depending on the type, dental veneers usually last between 7 and 20 years, but they may need to be replaced sooner if they become damaged or stained.

The cost of dental veneers can also be a deterrent for some people. In general, the procedure ranges from $450 to $2,500 per tooth. Dental insurance does not typically cover veneers, so they can be a significant investment. However, many people feel that the results are worth the cost.

If you’re considering getting dental veneers, be sure to consult with a qualified dentist to know the accurate cost and see if they are right for you.

Final Thoughts

If you’re unhappy with the appearance of your teeth, dental veneers may be a good option for you. They are durable and can last many years if properly cared for. However, they are also a significant investment, so be sure to consult with a qualified dentist so they can create a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

If you’re interested in learning more about dental veneers or would like to book an appointment, please visit the Karrinyup Dental Centre website or give us a call at (08) 9341 6233. We would be happy to answer any questions you have and help you determine if dental veneers are the right choice for you. Thanks for reading!

Dr. Justin Soon

Author

Dr. Justin Soon

Dr. Justin completed his Bachelor of Dental Surgery at the University of Western Australia. Dr Justin completed his surgical implant training under the mentorship of Dr. Glen Liddelow, Dr. Graham Carmichael, and Dr. Brent Allan at the Branemark Centre.

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