A dental veneer is a thin layer of material (the material can be porcelain or composite) that is placed over the teeth. They are popular in the field of cosmetic dentistry, as they can make teeth, and your smile, look bright, white, and sparkling.
If you are considering purchasing veneers, you have undoubtedly thought about several reasons why they might be a good fit for you, and several reasons why they might not be a good fit for you. Let’s have a look at what are generally considered the pros and cons of dental veneers.
Pros of dental veneers:
- Veneers can allow you to easily have the set of white, sparkling teeth that you desire. This is probably the biggest “pro”, and the reason that patients do opt for veneers.
- They are relatively easy to maintain. Unlike your natural teeth, veneers do not stain as readily and are easy to keep looking great.
- The change that veneers provide is dramatic and happens quickly. This can absolutely help boost a person’s self confidence, particularly if that person has had cosmetic problems with their teeth for a long period of time.
- Veneers are very strong and durable. They will last up to 15 years in most cases. This is attractive since they are not something that you would have to replace with regularity.
Cons of dental veneers:
- Veneers are a permanent procedure. If you get them, they are staying with you. They are not like a tattoo that can be removed later on if you decide you don’t like them. This fact gives certain patients second thoughts.
- The veneers will change some of the characteristics of your teeth that you have grown used to over the course of your life. The shape, size, and coloring will be different. The adjustment period for most patients is no more than a week or two, however.
- There can be some side effects from the veneers. In some patients, there may be a slight speech problem in pronouncing the “s” and “f” sounds. Also, the teeth may become sensitive. The enamel of the teeth is removed during the procedure, so some sensitivity to hot and cold can be expected.
- Veneers come with a price tag. If you are considering porcelain veneers, they can cost up to $1000.00 per tooth. This can make for a costly investment.
In the end, whether or not you choose to move forward with veneers is a personal one. Each patient has their own reasons and concerns when considering this procedure. If you need any help or need any questions answered, please do not hesitate to contact our office.
