Are veneers right for you?
Veneers are thin pieces of material, typically either resin or porcelain, which are applied directly to the outer surface of a tooth. This can be used to cover up a variety of cosmetic problems, such as cracks or discoloration, or to reshape the appearance of a tooth. Veneers are also extremely popular among actors and other onscreen celebrities who want the best possible smile.
However, veneers are not cheap - expect to pay several hundred dollars at a minimum for the most basic veneer, and top-grade work can be thousands of dollars per tooth. So, it's important to carefully consider whether veneers will be worth the investment.
The Benefits Of Dental Veneers
If you have moderately bad teeth with a lot of little cosmetic defects - but no serious issues such as missing teeth - veneers can be like getting brand new teeth. They're indistinguishable from real teeth, and can potentially be custom-shaped to give you the exact smile you want.
For example, ever wonder how Tom Cruise got his famously toothy grin? He wasn't born with it - he uses veneers.
Veneers are also reasonably long-lasting, although they are not a forever solution. A good set of veneers will last up to a decade, but will then need to be re-applied. This is one critical factor when choosing: once you get veneers, you can't go back to 'natural' teeth. The application process involves grinding down the outer layer of the tooth, so that the veneer can adhere.
The Types of Dental Veneers
As mentioned above, dental veneers are typically either made of porcelain or resin.
Porcelain veneers are:
More expensive
Longer-lasting (~10 years)
Less likely to stain
Less prone to damage, but hard to repair
Also, porcelain veneers typically require multiple trips to the dentist for the full application process, which can take around two weeks.
On the other hand, resin veneers are:
Less expensive
Less long-lasting (5-7 years)
More likely to stain
More prone to damage, but easier to repair
Resin veneers are also easier to apply, and can usually be done in a single session.
In either case, if you get dental veneers, you will want to be a bit careful with them. Avoid chewing on hard objects like fingernails, or using your teeth as a cutting tool. Wearing a mouth guard will also be absolutely critical if you play any kind of sports, as they are easily damaged by impacts.
Are veneers the right choice to improve your smile? Plainsboro Dental Care is available to evaluate your case and discuss your options. Schedule an appointment to learn more!