Are you considering transforming your smile with the help of veneers? You may already know that these beautiful, natural looking restorations can correct a variety of dental flaws in just one convenient, long-lasting treatment. But not so fast! Before you commit to your smile makeover, it’s important to understand these five important facts about veneers before you get started!
They’re Not Removable
When you first get veneers, your dentist will fit you with temporary restorations to protect your teeth until the real ones are delivered from the dental lab. Then, you’ll return to the office to have them removed and the permanent ones attached. After that, however, your restorations are designed to remain in your mouth for up to 20 years. They should not come off, but if one accidentally does, please call your dentist as soon as possible to have it reattached. Thus, be sure to take the time to get exactly what you want, so you’ll enjoy your gorgeous new grin for as long as possible.
They’re Irreversible
When you get veneers, your dentist will need to remove a very small amount of enamel from each tooth to make sure the restoration isn’t too bulky in your mouth. Because of this, the treatment is considered irreversible, and as such, you’ll either need a veneer or a crown on those treated teeth moving forward. The good news is that many last between 15 and 20 years, so it will likely be a long time before you need to replace them. But do be aware that once you commit, you are essentially choosing this treatment for life.
There’s a Such Thing as Too White
Your veneers can be customized to your exact specifications, including the shade. Unfortunately, however, it is possible to go too white. Thus, it is important to choose a cosmetic dentist who is experienced in this treatment. He or she can advise you on a natural color that matches the rest of your complexion and smile. Shade selectors can also give you a good idea of how your new smile will look so you can avoid that obvious, fake “chicklets” some people get from look from going too white.
You Don’t Need One on Every Tooth
Veneers can be a big investment, especially since they aren’t usually covered by dental insurance. However, the good news is that you probably won’t need them on every single tooth. In fact, you most likely will only need them on the teeth that are visible when you smile, which is typically between eight and 10 on each arch, making treatment more affordable than you might have expected!
They’re Strong, But Not Indestructible
Veneers are usually made of durable dental porcelain, so they look and feel just like your real teeth. However, while they were designed to be strong enough to stand up to a full diet, they’re not indestructible. In fact, it is still possible to chip, crack, and stain them, and in some cases, they may fall off, especially if you drink a lot of alcohol, which can damage the cement which bonds them on your teeth. Thus, be very careful with your restorations. Avoid excessively crunchy foods like hard candies and ice cubes and never use your teeth as tools. Furthermore, don’t smoke, limit your alcohol consumption, and if you do eat or drink anything dark, brush them well when you’re done so they don’t become discolored.
Remember, veneers are an incredible way to correct multiple dental flaws in one treatment, including the size, shape, spacing, and color of your teeth. But it’s important to understand all the benefits and limitations of this procedure before you commit to it. Thus, if you have any questions or concerns, let your dentist know at your consultation, so you can make the right decision for your beautiful, lasting smile.
About Our Practice
At Buda Dental Professionals, we are proud to offer a variety of cosmetic dentistry procedures, including veneers. If you’re ready to transform multiple aspects of your smile in just one treatment, these durable, beautiful prosthetics could be for you. To learn more about how they can benefit your gorgeous grin for years to come, schedule a consultation for veneers today by visiting our website or calling 512-295-5555.