Are you thinking about getting dental veneers? Here's everything you need to know about dental veneers, including the core benefits.

7 Things You Should Know About Dental Veneers

Demand for dental veneers is growing rapidly, with forecasters predicting the market will reach a value of $3.4 billion by 2028. 

We’ve all seen the impact veneers can have on participants in reality TV makeover shows. They’re a great solution for people who want to enjoy a permanent improvement in their smile by covering up imperfections and discoloration.

If you’re considering boosting your appearance and your confidence this way, these are the things you need to know first.

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1. Veneers Are a Permanent Fix

Once they’re affixed to your teeth, only a dentist can remove veneers, so it’s important to remember you’re making a lifelong decision when you have veneers fitted.

They’re an excellent solution for several dental issues, like:

  • Tooth discoloration
  • Chips
  • Worn down teeth
  • Mild misalignment
  • Gaps

To avoid a bulky appearance, your dentist will shave down each tooth before affixing a dental veneer. This enamel can’t grow back, so, once you’ve had veneers fitted, there’s no going back.  

2. Dental Veneers Look Natural

You keep all your teeth when you opt for veneers, they aren’t like implants or crowns that replace your natural teeth. Dental veneers comprise thin shells of porcelain, composite, or resin affixed to the front of your teeth. 

Dentists go to great lengths to ensure your veneers look natural by designing them to suit your facial symmetry.  It’s easy for this cosmetic improvement to appear fake without due care.

We all crave glistening pearly white, but soft, natural white is preferable to opaque white if you want to avoid an unnatural appearance.  

3. You Get to Try Them Out First

Before the dentist makes any permanent changes, they’ll craft a pair of temporary veneers made of composite materials. You’ll wear this temporary set for a week or two and carry on with daily life as normal. 

During this time, you’re basically test-driving the veneers to see if they suit you and if you’re comfortable wearing them. After this trial period, you can decide to make changes or proceed with the veneers as they are. 

4. Porcelain Veneers Don’t Stain Easily

Porcelain veneers are the preferable choice compared to resin, as they won’t stain no matter how red wine you drink. This ensures you’ll always have a bright smile during cocktail hour. 

Coffee and tea can stain the composite used to attach your veneers, so avoid excessive consumption or drink these beverages with a straw. Nicotine is another no-no, so try to cut down on smoking or give it up entirely. 

Poor dental hygiene has a major impact on your veneers.

It’s essential to keep your teeth in great condition to prevent them from decaying behind the veneers. You won’t easily notice any deterioration in your teeth behind the veneers.

Read this complete dental veneers guide for more tips on caring for your veneers.

5. Veneers Are Durable

Veneers can last up to 15 years when well cared for, as they stand up well to normal wear and tear. Resin veneers aren’t as tough and will only last a maximum of 7 years. 

You can chip or crack your veneers if you bite down on hard objects or if you grind your teeth together. 

You’ll need to take excellent care of your teeth to ensure your veneers work well for you. If you aren’t prepared to brush and floss your teeth twice daily and rinse with an alcohol-free mouthwash, dental veneers aren’t a good choice for you.

It’s vital to keep your teeth and gums healthy when you have veneers, so you’re wasting your money if you have a lackadaisical approach toward dental hygiene. 

6. Veneers Offer Flexible Solutions

The best part of veneers is that you can have them attached one at a time if you want to, depending on your budget. In many cases, you don’t need a full set of veneers, often, the smallest change can improve your smile considerably.

A cosmetic dentist can design veneers to improve the appearance of your teeth, no matter how badly stained and cracked they are, within reason. 

7. Veneers Don’t Suit Everyone

Dental veneers are a popular choice among Americans nowadays, but they remain a cosmetic improvement. As a result, your health insurance won’t cover any of the costs associated with getting veneers fitted. 

They cost between $900 and $2,500 per tooth. If you can’t afford veneers, your dentist may be able to offer alternative solutions.

Your dentist can’t fit veneers if you have tooth decay or an oral infection. They’ll need to help you rectify these issues first. 

They can clean out and fill cavities, treat deep gum pockets with root planing and scaling, and ensure your teeth are healthy and stable enough for veneers. 

If you struggle with severe bruxism or teeth grinding, you’ll break your porcelain veneers in no time.

Your dentist can investigate the causes of your bruxism and try to find a solution. In some cases, wearing a custom mouth guard at night may protect your veneers from damage due to grinding.  

Keep Smiling

Remember, veneers are a purely cosmetic option and not a substitute for good dental care. They’re essentially the last resort when you’ve exhausted all other conventional options.

If you’re interested in improving your appearance with dental veneers, make an appointment with a cosmetic dentist to discuss whether they’re a good option for you.

A confident smile can do much to improve your appearance and your prospects. 

Are you interested in more ways to enhance your looks, health, and chances of success? Browse our website for more health and lifestyle tips.

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