Everyone knows the pain of not feeling confident with their smile. Whether it’s due to a cracked tooth, a tooth lost to an accident or disease, or even discoloration, the feeling of not being confident in your smile can really take a toll on your mental health. Having healthy teeth that you are proud of is pivotal for a happy life, and dental veneers are a great way to get you there.
The thin porcelain cap slides right over your teeth to create a whiter, fuller smile. They are a great way to instantly improve your smile, but are they any better than other forms of cosmetic dentistry? Is there an advantage to going with dental veneers as opposed to a full dental implant? In order to help you make an educated and informed decision regarding your dental future, Journal Square Dental has put together a guide on the pros and cons of dental veneers.
The Pros of Dental Veneers
For a natural-looking smile, veneers are a great way to go when it comes to covering any discolored, stained, or chipped teeth. The thin porcelain shell fits snuggly over your natural teeth and requires little to no shaving down. Veneers have steadily gained popularity over the years, and it’s partially because of their ease, especially when compared to other forms of cosmetic dentistry, such as crowns. Crowns require your natural tooth to be significantly shaved down. They can also make your other teeth stand out if you are experiencing some discoloration.
Veneers are one of the most effective ways to makeover your smile and can last a relatively long time if taken care of properly. The porcelain is naturally stain-resistant, making your smile look whiter and healthier longer than other forms of dental replacements.
The Cons of Dental Veneers
While many patients are very happy with their decision to move forward with dental veneers, it is still in your best interest to speak with a dental professional before proceeding with the procedure. The compassionate and knowledgeable team at Journal Square Dental is here to guide you through the process and help answer any questions or concerns you may have. A few examples of cons can include:
- Permanent procedure: Once veneers have been placed, they are there to stay until they need to be replaced by another set.
- Possible sensitivity: As technology advances, veneers require less and less removal of the natural tooth. However, most porcelain veneers today still do require a thin layer of enamel to be removed, which can increase the risk of sensitivity.
- Not as strong as natural teeth: While veneers are stable and sturdy, they are still artificial. Nothing beats the strength and durability of your natural teeth. For exact limitations and guidance on certain foods to avoid or chew carefully, your dentist can advise you.
Unfortunately, some patients may also just not be great candidates for veneers. Discolored or weakened teeth can often be signs of gum disease such as periodontitis or gingivitis, which will need to be treated as such before any consideration can be given to cosmetic procedures. Also, if the disease requires root canals, your dentist may recommend other forms of cosmetic procedures that cater to your specific needs better than veneers.
Considering Dental Veneers? A Dental Professional Can Talk To You Today
For over 25 years, Journal Square Dental has made our local community’s smile our top priority. Our team of dental professionals possesses the skills and compassion necessary to turn our dental practice into a one-stop shop for any and all dental needs, including veneers. Our very own Dr. Haig Rickerby has dedicated his career to the oral well-being of others and has proudly been a member of the New Jersey Dental Association since 1987.
To speak to an actual professional today about your questions, please call our office at (201) 431-0288 or use a contact form.
