Veneers are among the most popular cosmetic dentistry treatments, and you may even know a celebrity or two who has them. (They’re a favourite among those who want picture-perfect smiles.)
But are veneers right for you?
To find out, you need to understand exactly what veneers are, what they offer, and the different factors you need to consider.
What are veneers?
Veneers are thin ceramic shells (often made of porcelain) that are placed over the teeth. They are mainly used to hide imperfections in a patient’s teeth, making their teeth look healthier and more presentable.
Veneers are designed to look like natural teeth, which allows them to blend with your real teeth easily.
Veneers are one of the top cosmetic dentistry solutions, and it’s regularly used for improving the look of teeth that are damaged, discoloured, misaligned, or misshapen. They are also used to hide or correct gaps in teeth, providing a more uniform and even set of teeth.
What You Need to Consider Before Getting Veneers?
As great as veneers are for fixing cosmetic flaws in teeth, they’re not for everyone.
To determine whether veneers are right for you, you’ll need to consider a variety of factors:
- Condition of your teeth – Veneers are best used for fixing minor cosmetic issues in teeth. These issues include minor chips, stains, and small gaps in between teeth. However, if you have significant damage or flaws in your teeth, then veneers may not be enough to fix it.
- Tooth and gum health – Veneers require your teeth and gums to be healthy to work effectively. If you have periodontal disease or severe gum issues, then veneers may not be an appropriate long-term solution.
- Tooth sensitivity – The application of veneers involves removing a small layer of enamel from your teeth where your veneers will be placed. For some patients, this process can be too painful and can make their tooth sensitivity worse. If you have particularly sensitive teeth, veneers may not be your best option.
- Grinding– Veneers are not as strong as natural teeth, and they can crack or get chipped if you’re not careful. Also, if you know you tend to grind or clench your teeth, then your veneers will likely not last long.
The Pros and Cons of Veneers
Aside from the factors above, you’ll also need to consider its pros and cons to make sure you’re making the right decision.
| Pros | Cons |
| + Looks and feels like natural teeth | – Often expensive – especially if you need veneers for multiple teeth |
| + Resistant to stains and discolouration | – More fragile than natural teeth – they can get chipped or damaged |
| + Can be used as an alternative to dental crowns | – The process is irreversible – once part of your enamel is removed, it won’t grow back |
| + Instantly improves the appearance of your teeth | – Some patients may experience increased tooth sensitivity |
| + Can last up to ten years with proper care | – Usually cannot be replaced or fixed if damaged (they’ll need to be replaced) |
If you’re a candidate for veneers and don’t mind the drawbacks, then it’s an excellent solution for improving the look and appearance of your teeth.
However, if the drawbacks are too concerning for you, then it may not be your most suitable option.
Need help deciding?
If you need help deciding whether to get veneers or not, book an appointment with our dentist for expert guidance. Our dentist can evaluate your teeth and determine the suitability of veneers so you can make the right choice.
If you have any questions about veneers and process for getting them, feel free to contact us for more information.
