The Pros and Cons of Dental Veneers

Before committing to dental veneers, you should weigh the pros and cons carefully. Firstly, veneers are a substantial money investment. Porcelain veneers can cost anywhere between $800 to $3,000 per tooth in Australia. The benefits, on the other hand, are hard to ignore. They’re tough, resist stains well, and protect damaged teeth while improving your overall oral health. They fix many cosmetic problems, such as discoloured, chipped or misaligned teeth. This guide aims to give you everything you need to decide if dental veneers will work for your smile.

What Are Dental Veneers and Who Are They For?

Dental veneers have become a game-changing solution that can boost your smile without the need for major dental work. These thin, custom-made shells are crafted from either porcelain or composite resin material and are bonded directly to the surfaces of your natural teeth. They effectively hide minor cosmetic flaws while maintaining a completely natural appearance.

People love porcelain veneers because they last longer and match natural teeth’s light-reflecting qualities. Composite resin veneers cost less but don’t have the same lifespan as porcelain ones.

You might find veneers right for you if your teeth are slightly crooked, have gaps, show chips or wear, or won’t respond to normal whitening treatments. Veneers are also a great way to get your smile back if your enamel shows damage from erosion, too much brushing, or stomach acid problems.

In spite of that, veneers aren’t right for everyone. Your oral health needs to be in good shape before getting them. Problems like active gum disease, untreated cavities, or thin tooth enamel need treatment first. On top of that, teeth grinding habits can make veneers a poor choice since they might chip, break, or come loose.

The Real Benefits of Veneers

Research shows that the benefits of veneers go way beyond the reach and influence of just making teeth look better:

• Veneers work great to fix small cosmetic problems that might otherwise require long orthodontic treatments, such as gaps between front teeth and slightly crooked teeth. This makes them perfect for anyone who wants quick aesthetic improvements without lengthy treatments.
• They also work well for teeth with worn enamel from erosion and abrasion. Your enamel doesn’t grow back on its own, so veneers help protect teeth damaged by acidic foods, harsh brushing, or acid reflux.
• The process to put veneers on teeth barely affects the original tooth. Dentists only need to remove 0.3-0.5mm of enamel. Your tooth’s structure stays mostly intact while still getting dramatically improved.

It is worth noting that porcelain veneers can last 10-20 years with good care and regular dental visits.

The Downsides You Should Know

Dental veneers offer impressive benefits, but you should know their drawbacks before making your decision:

• Your tooth enamel’s permanent removal stands as the biggest concern. Most veneer procedures require your dentist to remove a thin enamel layer to fit the veneer. Natural enamel never grows back, which means you’ll need some covering on those teeth for life.

• The price tag often stops many patients. Porcelain veneers typically cost between $800 and $3,000 per tooth, with a full set often ranging from $10,000 to $20,000. Composite options range from $600 to $2,000 per tooth. 

• Insurance companies rarely cover these procedures because they view them as cosmetic treatments.

• Tooth sensitivity is common after getting veneers. Many people report discomfort with hot or cold temperatures. This sensitivity usually goes away within days, though some patients experience it for longer.

• Durability is a concern. Veneers might chip, crack or break under pressure, especially if you grind teeth, bite nails, or chew hard objects. The bonding cement might weaken over time, which could make veneers loose or fall off completely.

These factors deserve careful thought along with the benefits as you decide if veneers match your dental needs and lifestyle.

What to Expect: The Procedure and Aftercare

Getting veneers involves several appointments, each with an important role in creating your new smile.

1. Your dentist starts with a full examination of your teeth and a consultation. They’ll review your dental history, take X-rays, and talk about your goals. Your dentist will need to treat any tooth decay or gum disease first before they can start. This may require additional appointments.

2. The next step happens after you decide to move forward. Your dentist removes about 0.3-0.5mm of enamel from your teeth. This creates space for the veneers. They will then take impressions of your prepared teeth to make moulds for your custom veneers. You’ll get temporary veneers to protect your teeth while the dental lab makes your permanent ones. This usually takes 2-4 weeks.

3. When your permanent veneers arrive, your dentist positions each one carefully. They check the fit and appearance before bonding them permanently with dental cement. A special light hardens the adhesive quickly for a secure fit. Your dentist removes extra cement and makes final adjustments.

4. Your mouth needs time to adjust to the new veneers. You might feel some sensitivity and gum discomfort for a few days. Good oral hygiene helps your veneers last longer. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste twice daily to avoid scratching them. With proper care, porcelain veneers can last 10-20 years. That makes them worth the investment.

To keep your veneers in great shape:

• Stay away from hard foods, ice, and don’t use your teeth as tools

• Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth

• Cut down on coffee, tea, and red wine that can stain

• See your dentist every six months
  
  

Should You Get Veneers? A Personal Decision Guide

The decision to get dental veneers depends on personal factors and professional advice.

These questions will help you decide if veneers are right for you:

• What bothers you most? Colour, shape, alignment, or damaged teeth?

• Are you ready to commit to this permanent procedure?

• Have you looked into other options like bonding, whitening, or orthodontics?

• Can you handle the upfront costs and future maintenance?

Should you decide to choose veneers, we strongly recommend doing your research so you can boost your appointment’s value. Gather your dental records, including past treatments and current oral health information. Pictures of smiles you like can help you show your dentist exactly what look you’re going for.

Transform Your Smile with Camira Dental

Choosing veneers is ultimately a personal decision that balances cosmetic desires with practical considerations. The right choice comes from working closely with your dental team to achieve a natural-looking smile that boosts your confidence while maintaining good oral health.

Contact the team at Camira Dental today to book a consultation and take the first step towards your dream smile.