Does the age of selfies and online meetings have you more focused on your smile? You’re not alone. Cosmetic dental procedures are rising, and dental veneers are more popular than ever. Once the domain of models and celebrities, veneers are increasingly popular with regular folks of all ages. Veneers are porcelain coverings for your natural teeth that can cover a wide range of cosmetic concerns–and even some functional dental issues. They can do wonders to improve your smile, but veneers aren’t for everyone. Your dentist can provide excellent and lower-cost alternatives, too.
Veneers are thin shells of porcelain or composite resin bonded to the front of your teeth. They are designed to improve the appearance of your teeth and can help with stained, crooked, short or misshapen teeth. Many patients choose porcelain because it’s durable, stain-resistant and natural-looking. However, composite veneers are a faster and more affordable option.
Cosmetic concerns usually top the list of patient concerns. Veneers can transform discolored or stained teeth that don’t respond to whitening. They can also mask chipped, cracked, short or uneven teeth. Your dentist may also recommend veneers to address minor alignment and spacing issues, including small gaps between teeth and mild crowding or misalignment. Veneers can also cover worn or weakened teeth caused by grinding or erosion from acidic foods and drinks.
Dental veneers are an investment, and you want to do things right. It often takes multiple visits to ensure you get the smile of your dreams. Your dentist starts with an initial consultation, where you’ll go over digital mock-ups or models to get a glimpse of the results and discuss the right color, size and shape for you. To prepare for your new veneers, your dentist removes a thin layer of enamel before permanently bonding your veneers. Once your veneers are in place, follow your dentist’s guidelines to avoid chipping, cracking and staining to maintain your new smile.
Veneers are nothing short of life-changing for many patients. They can improve your smile dramatically and give your entire face a more youthful look. Patients report higher levels of confidence with a bright, straight smile. They offer an immediate improvement in appearance and a natural look customized for each patient. Porcelain veneers are exceptionally stain-resistant.
On the downside, veneers are an irreversible procedure because your dentist has to remove your natural tooth enamel to apply the new layer. Fortunately, new developments in bonding technology mean your dentist doesn’t have to remove as much of your tooth as in decades past. However, they are still a permanent choice, and there’s a good chance you’ll have to replace them over your lifetime. Veneers are also a significant financial investment, so be sure the procedure is worth the cost. Finally, take great care of your veneers to avoid chipping and cracking, so be ready to ditch some of your bad habits.
Veneers are a commitment, and they’re not for everyone. But no worries if you decide they’re not the best fit for your lifestyle or budget. Your family dentist can propose several less costly, less permanent options.
If you want to improve your smile and are considering veneers, consulting your family dentist is the best first step. Your dentist can walk you through your goals and budget and openly discuss your dental health. They’ll also check your enamel health and tooth structure to ensure veneers are a good fit. Remember, veneers are durable but require care, and you’ll need to avoid grinding and eating hard foods. At Greenhill Family Dentistry, we’ve created life-changing transformations thanks to veneers. Find out more; let’s talk! Schedule a consultation with our office and get a glimpse of what life could look like with a bright, beautiful smile.
