Dental veneers are a cosmetic enhancement for your teeth. They are designed to conceal imperfections in the front row of teeth that are most visible when you smile. For people with healthy teeth that simply need cosmetic improvements, veneers are a quick and easy way to achieve a more natural looking smile.
If you’re considering veneers, you may be wondering if they are worth it; the cost, the time, etc. Here’s what you need to know to make a fully informed decision.
What Are Dental Veneers?
Veneers are thin pieces of porcelain or composite material that attach to the front side of your teeth. They are most often placed on the first 6-8 teeth in the front row. You can choose to get veneers on just the top row of teeth, or the top and bottom depending on the appearance of your teeth and your goals for your smile.
Types of Dental Veneers
There two common types of dental veneers:
- Porcelain veneers. Porcelain is a specific type of ceramic that is manufactured to be strong and durable. It also resembles tooth enamel for a natural appearance.
- Composite veneers. Composite resin veneers are made of the same material that is used to fill cavities. It starts out soft to be molded into the desired shape, then hardened.
Both of these types of veneers are customizable in size, shape, and color to match your existing teeth and provide a natural looking smile.
Considerations About Dental Veneers
If you are wondering whether or not veneers would be worth it for you, consider the following:
- Budget. Veneers are considered to be a cosmetic procedure, which means they are not covered by insurance. The total cost of veneers will be completely out of pocket. Estimates vary, but it is typically calculated on a per-tooth basis.
- Confidence. How much is your confidence suffering as a result of the cosmetic imperfection in your teeth? If you feel self-conscious or worried about how your smile looks, the boost in confidence that veneers could provide may be worth it.
- Time. Veneers are a relatively quick procedure when compared to other cosmetic treatments. But the process still takes a few dental appointments over the course of a few weeks to a few months.
- Oral health. Your current oral health is an important consideration when it comes to veneers. If your teeth and gums are not healthy, you may need alternative treatments before getting veneers or instead of getting them. For example, a dental crown fits completely over a tooth to restore the structure as well as the appearance.
Making The Choice
Deciding whether or not to get veneers is not a decision you can make on your own. A consultation with a qualified cosmetic dentist is necessary to determine if you are eligible for veneers and if they would be the best treatment option for you. There is a lot to consider when choosing a cosmetic dentistry treatment, and your dentist can make sure you understand your choices.
Frequently Asked Questions About Veneers
Are veneers permanent?
Veneers are permanently attached to your teeth. A very thin layer of enamel is removed first, then a special dental adhesive is used to hold them in place. They can only be removed by your dentist.
How long do veneers last?
Veneers last an average of 10 to 20 years. You can get the most time out of your veneers by taking excellent care of them and going to the dentist regularly for cleanings and exams.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you’re interested in getting dental veneers, schedule a consultation today with Emerson Dental. After a brief evaluation and an open discussion about your smile goals, we can make a recommendation for treatment that will help you achieve the smile you want.
Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.