Do I Need Dental Veneers?

Within the last decade, the wonders of cosmetic dentistry have gained significant popularity and attention. Now, more than ever, thousands of people are choosing to receive a total smile makeover, perfecting those pearly whites, and improving their overall appearance. If your teeth are discolored, chipped, or misaligned, you may have asked yourself, “how can I fix my teeth?” Now, in just a couple of visits, you can have a custom-made smile of your dreams that will be the envy of friends and family. The question you should ask yourself is, “do I need dental veneers?”

What Are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are thin, customized shells made of porcelain or composite resin that are placed over and bonded to one or more teeth. Veneers, which are made to match the color of your natural teeth, are designed to either improve your appearance by changing the shape, length or size of an existing, less-than-perfect tooth. Veneers are particularly helpful in improving your smile if you have teeth that are chipped or stained. Usually, dental veneers are used for cosmetic reasons. However, in some cases, veneers can be used as part of a dental makeover that includes treatment for more serious problems such as gum disease.

Why Do I need Dental Veneers?

Veneers are typically used in several situations. One of the most common reasons patients opt for veneers is because their teeth have become discolored for a variety of reasons. Often, these stains can be very difficult, or even impossible, to remove. Broken, chipped, misaligned, uneven, or worn down teeth can also be dramatically, quickly, and painlessly fixed with veneers. Additionally, veneers are used to fill small, unsightly gaps between teeth.

While you could go to unbelievable lengths to obtain a smile that you are proud to share, porcelain or composite, resin veneers are a much more simple and cost effective cosmetic option and have distinct advantages over other dental procedures. Veneers are also just as stain resistant and strong as your natural teeth.

If you're still asking the question, "do I need dental veneers?", here are some of the benefits of porcelain or composite, resin veneers.

• Since veneers are custom made for each person, it is almost impossible to tell the difference between the veneers and your natural teeth. Porcelain veneers tend to reflect light better than their resin counterparts, thus having a slightly more natural appearance.
• The color of veneer can be selected carefully so that it makes dark teeth appear whiter.
• Veneers offer more of a conservative approach to changing the color and shape of teeth. In contrast with crowns, veneers do not require the extensive shaping prior to the procedure yet offer a stronger, more aesthetic alternative.
• Gum tissue tolerates porcelain very well.
• Unlike natural teeth that can be stained very easily, dental veneers resist stains from beverages such as coffee, tea, and red wine. This is especially true for porcelain veneers.
• Dental veneers are resilient and as strong as natural tooth enamel. They can last anywhere from ten to thirty years depending on how well they are taken care of.