Maintaining oral health can be challenging – there are various factors both within and beyond our control that can influence your overall dental health and appearance. However, there are a wide range of dental care options available allowing us to not only enhance our oral health through regular check-ups but also improve our dental aesthetics. Treatments like veneers offer cosmetic enhancements that contribute to a healthier and more appealing smile for everyone.
What Are Dental Veneers?
Veneers are custom-made thin “covers” made from materials such as resin or porcelain, which act as a “shell” or “cover” for your natural tooth. These shells are bonded to the front surface of your teeth in order to improve your overall oral aesthetic. They are also used by dentists to correct things such as discoloration, chips, misalignment, or gaps within your teeth. The best part is that the veneer itself can be colored to match your existing teeth, so it will not look out of place. Due to the materials that they are made of, they are generally very durable and resistant to staining.
Pros & Cons Of Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are a popular cosmetic dentistry option that provides several benefits, but they also present some limitations. Let’s explore both the pros and cons of choosing veneers:
Pros:
- Natural Appearance: Veneers are very popular for their ability to appear natural. Depending on the material , your dental specialist can customize the color to match your existing teeth, ensuring they blend seamlessly.
- Confidence Enhancement: Veneers can enhance the appearance of your teeth and can correct issues such as chips, cracks, or gaps. This improvement often boosts self-esteem and improves confidence levels.
- Stain resistant: Veneers are more resistant to staining than natural teeth, so you won’t need to worry about discoloration from coffee, tea, and other staining agents.
- Minimally Invasive: Applying veneers is a non-invasive process that usually does not require a general anesthetic or extended recovery time.
- Durability: Although less durable than natural teeth, veneers are relatively sturdy. Composite veneers (resin) can last approximately seven years, while porcelain veneers can last up to fifteen years.
Cons:
- Artifical Nature: Despite their realistic appearance, veneers are not natural teeth. This may be a concern for individuals who prefer entirely natural solutions.
- Cost: Veneers can be expensive, often exceeding $1,000 and prices can vary based on the material used and the number of teeth.
- Permanent Change: The process of applying veneers involve the removal of a portion of the existing enamel, which is irreversible. This alternation may lead to an increase in tooth sensitivity.
- Fragile: Although durable, veneers can chip or break under excessive force or impact. This means care must be taken with hard foods and habits like teeth grinding.
- Eligibility: Not everyone is a candidate for veneers. If you suffer from issues such as tooth decay, weak teeth, or insufficient enamel on your teeth – veneers may not be right for you.
Are Veneers Right For You?
Deciding whether to opt for veneers involves weighing these pros & cons in the context of your personal dental health and aesthetic goals. A consultation with a qualified dental specialist, such as the dental team at Eriks Dental Group, can provide advise based on your specific circumstances.
For further information about veneers or to schedule a consultation, please contact Eriks Dental Group, our experienced team offers a range of dental services from family care to cosmetic dentistry.
Call us today at 561-733-4004 to learn more or to book an appointment.