The decision to move forward with veneers requires careful consideration. Veneers can drastically change the appearance of your smile. They will correct issues that you may have thought would plague your smile forever.
When making the decision to commit to veneers, you may wonder if in the future you might regret your choice. The dentists at Metropolitan Dental Care have designed beautiful porcelain veneers for numerous patients, and their results were life-changing. Some patients expressed doubts prior to having veneers placed, but their worries were eliminated once they saw a significant improvement in their smiles.
What are veneers?
Veneers are used in cosmetic dentistry to improve imperfect smiles by permanently covering and correcting damaged or discolored teeth. They are typically made from porcelain, which is also known as ceramic.
Custom-made veneers are designed to fit, function perfectly, and look totally natural. The dentist will determine the proper size, shape, and color of the veneers to ensure that they blend seamlessly with your other natural teeth. Some patients need just one veneer, while others need eight or ten to achieve the smile they want.
The dentist will need to prepare your teeth for veneers by slightly reshaping them. We believe in minimally invasive dentistry, so only the least amount of natural enamel will be removed. Next, we will take digital impressions of your teeth. You will be fitted with a set of temporary veneers. After fabrication of the veneers, simply return to the office to have the temporary veneers removed and replaced with your veneers.
The placement process for veneers is straightforward. Your dentist removes a small amount of enamel from your natural teeth. Next, the dentist attaches the veneers to the teeth with a bonding agent. The final step requires the use of a light that works to harden the bonding material. Your dentist files and polishes the veneers and then your new smile is ready to go.
What issues can veneers correct?
Veneers can completely transform your smile and eliminate your insecurities at the same time. No one will know you have them unless you tell them.
Veneers correct a multitude of dental issues including cracked teeth, stained or discolored teeth, or chipped teeth. Veneers also close gaps and correct minor alignment issues.
Will I have any regrets about getting veneers?
Most people do not have any regrets about moving forward with veneers. If anything, they regret having waited so long to correct their smile. Veneers can erase years and years of insecurities and confidence issues.
A few of the common concerns patients have about veneers appear below:
- Damage to Natural Teeth
One of many common misconceptions regarding veneers is that they damage to your original teeth during application. Some patients have a preconceived notion that their dentist strips most of their enamel from the tooth and only a small portion of the tooth remains. In most situations, your dentist will remove a very small amount of enamel from each tooth that receives a veneer.
- Large Financial Obligation
Oftentimes patients worry if the cost of veneers really makes the treatment worth it. While not considered a cheap option, veneers are a durable option that will last for years to come. The cost can vary based on the amount of veneers you need and if your dentist needs to perform additional dental work prior to fitted your veneers.
Dental insurance may cover a portion of the cost. Contact your insurance provider to determine if any of the treatment qualifies for coverage. Many dentists also provide financing options that offer flexible payment plans.
- Inability to Whiten
Unfortunately, veneers cannot be whitened once they’ve been made. Your dentist can work with you to address this issue. One option includes teeth whitening prior to the application of your veneers. Once your natural teeth have been whitened you can then select the color of your veneers. This process allows your veneers and surrounding teeth to match while providing a more natural appearance.
- Ongoing Maintenance
While not significant, veneers do require some maintenance. Tooth decay and cavities can still develop behind your veneers. Continue to take care of your teeth and gums to avoid potential issues.
Brushing and flossing regularly, along with frequent visits to the dentist, help keep your teeth in good condition and allow you to get the most out of your veneers.
- Artificial Appearance
When it comes to veneers, a common concern of patients includes whether their teeth will still look natural following the treatment. Selecting veneers that work well with your natural teeth requires a few carefully thought out decisions. There are numerous ways to customize veneers by tooth size, shape, and color.
One way to avoid having an unnatural-looking smile includes selecting veneers in a shade that closely resembles your natural teeth. While white teeth are always pleasant, veneers that appear incredibly white and bright can look too fake and unconvincing.
Your dentist will also guide you during this process by providing suggestions that work best with your natural teeth. Discuss your concerns with your dentist if you have any hesitations regarding your selection. You don’t want to experience any regrets after the fact.
- Staining
Patients worry they may have to refrain from eating certain foods or beverages to avoid staining their veneers. Veneers are constructed from a very durable material that helps maintain their appearance. Veneers can stain, but they don’t stain the same way natural teeth stain. It takes quite a bit of wear and tear to stain veneers.
Porcelain veneers are more stain-resistant than composite resin veneers. You can still have a glass of wine or tomato without worrying about staining your veneers. If you are concerned, rinse your mouth after every meal to remove any traces of food or beverages.
Dentists recommend patients stop smoking for numerous reasons including tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. Patients who wear veneers also need to avoid smoking. While the veneers won’t stain, the edges and bonding material may become yellow over time.
How long do veneers last?
Veneers last well over a decade as long as you take proper care of them. Veneers require the same care as your natural teeth. Your dentist recommends brushing twice a day and flossing daily. Maintaining proper oral hygiene ensures that you get the most mileage out of the porcelain shells.
In addition to your daily oral hygiene regimen, continue to see your dentist on a regular basis. Routine dental exams provide your dentist with an opportunity to inspect your veneers and address any potential issues. Contact our office as soon as possible if you encounter any issues with your veneers prior to your routine dental exam. Small issues can lead to bigger issues if they’re not addressed in time.
Consider veneers more than just a financial investment; they’re also an investment in your smile. Taking proper care of your veneers ensures they last for many years and remain in good condition.
How can I find additional information?
Veneers have transformed the lives of countless patients. While apprehension over a dental procedure is normal patients who have gone through the procedure have been more than pleased with their results.
If you’re still on the fence about veneers, then please contact our office to schedule an appointment and receive more information. The knowledgeable dentists at Metropolitan Dental Care strive to guide you in the right direction and answer any of your questions.
