Dental veneers are a popular cosmetic treatment and come in various types. In this article, we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of veneers and their cost, Can you go back to normal teeth after veneers? and essential care instructions for maintaining them.
What are dental veneers?
Veneers are custom-made tooth colored thin covers or shells, that are applied to the front (anterior) surface of the teeth.
These thin covers are used to improve the appearance of teeth and address various dental issues.
Types of veneers
Dental veneers are categorized into several types, chosen based on:
- Patient preference.
- Budget.
- Condition of the teeth.
The best types of veneers should have the following characteristics:
- Provide an excellent appearance.
- Be affordable.
- Have a long lifespan.
- Resist staining.
- Require minimal preparation.
- Have little or no adverse effects on the teeth.
Common Types of Veneers:
Composite veneers
Veneers characterized by:
- Made from composite resin (the same material used for tooth-colored fillings).
- Used to correct mild issues such as light staining.
- Applied in increments to achieve the desired thickness and appearance.
- Cost-effective, but generally last 5-7 years.
- Prone to chipping or distortion and may need replacement sooner.
Porcelain veneers
Dental veneers characterized by:
- Made from durable porcelain material.
- Known for their hardness and excellent appearance.
- Custom-made and require the removal of a small amount of the tooth’s front and side surfaces.
- Attached to the teeth with a specialized bonding material.
No preparation veneers
They are:
- Very thin shells, often referred to as laminate veneers or lumineers.
- Require little to no preparation of the teeth.
- Ideal for teeth whitening and suitable for healthy, unaffected teeth.
- Not suitable for all patients.
Removable veneers
Dental veneers characterized by:
- Require no preparation and are often used for smile correction.
- Known as snap-on smiles, and covering all the teeth.
- Can become distorted or worn over time and should not be used while eating, especially hard or hot foods.
Who is eligible for dental veneers?
Veneers are suitable for individuals with the following issues:
- Cracked teeth
- Permanently stained teeth
- Shaped, worn, or broken teeth
- Misshaped teeth
- Teeth affected by fluorosis
Eligibility for veneers also requires healthy gums and minimal tooth decay.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of veneers?
Before making your decision, you must know veneers teeth pros and cons.
Advantages
Veneers have many benefits that include:
- Enhance the appearance of teeth and improve the smile.
- More resistant to stains than natural teeth.
- Available in various shades to match natural teeth color.
- Long-lasting, ranging from (5-15) years, depending on the type.
- Not susceptible to decay
- Available at different price points.
- Biocompatible and gentle on the gums.
- Requires less tooth removal compared to crowns
Disadvantages
Dental veneers may have some disadvantages as:
- May be irreversible.
- The removal of some natural tooth surface.
- Can increase tooth sensitivity.
- May be more expensive than other dental treatments like composite fillings or crowns.
- Can fall off or break.
- May not withstand strong chewing forces.
- Requires special care to prevent issues such as gingivitis or cavities.
How are veneers applied to teeth?
Dental veneers preparation involves several steps:
- Preparation: Teeth prepared for veneers by removal of dental caries and a small amount of tooth enamel.
- Impression: Taking impressions of the upper and lower jaws using dental impression material to capture details of the preparation.
- Construction: Sending the impressions to a dental lab for veneer fabrication.
- Fitting: The lab will send the veneers back to the dentist, who will try them on to ensure proper fit and appearance.
- Bonding: The dentist will bond the veneers to the teeth using specialized adhesive materials.
The entire process can take approximately two weeks or more.
How do I choose the right dentist for veneers?
When selecting a dentist for veneers, consider the following:
- Qualifications and specialization in dental veneers.
- Dentist’s license and credentials.
- Dental veneers before and after photos of previous patients.
- Quality of instruments and infection control measures.
- Clinic location for convenience and easier access to appointments and allows you to contact your dentist promptly in case of any issues.
- Cost of the veneers.
Are veneers suitable for all types of teeth?
Veneers are suitable for anterior and premolar teeth, but are not recommended for molars due to high chewing forces.
How long do teeth veneers last?
The lifespan of veneers varies based on type and patient habits, typically lasting several years. They may need replacement if damaged or dislodged.
Are veneers permanent?
The permanence of veneers depends on the type:
- Permanent: If tooth preparation is required before installation.
- Reversible: For removable veneers or lumineers.
What is the Cost of dental veneers?
The veneers price varies by type, with porcelain veneers generally being the most expensive.
Factors influencing cost include:
- Dentist’s experience and qualifications.
- Clinic’s level of service.
- Number of teeth treated, so the porcelain veneers cost full mouth is more than that for one or little teeth.
- Local currency.
It’s important to note that the cost of veneers is usually not covered by medical insurance as it is considered a cosmetic procedure.
What happens to teeth under veneers?
Teeth and gums under veneers can remain healthy if proper care is taken:
- Brush, floss, and rinse regularly.
- Avoid using veneers to bite or open hard objects.
- Limit foods and drinks that may cause staining, such as coffee and tea.
- Avoid smoking to maintain clean veneers and healthy gums.
Proper care is essential to maintaining both your dental veneers and overall dental health. Follow your dentist’s instructions to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your veneers.
