4 Things You Need to Know About Dental Veneers
Posted on: 20 October 2015
If you are embarrassed by cracks, stains, or other dental flaws, don't despair; dental veneers can save your smile. Veneers are very thin pieces of porcelain or composite material that are permanently bonded to tooth enamel to improve the appearance of your teeth. Before you make a decision about whether veneers are right for you, take the time to consider these four key facts.
1. Veneers Can Fix a Wide Range of Dental Flaws
Veneers aren't just a solution for cracked or chipped teeth. They can also be used to cover up stains that can't be removed with standard whitening techniques. Dentists can carefully match the colour of veneers to the shade of the surrounding teeth, creating a natural appearance. They can even apply veneers to cover up gaps between teeth, creating a more even smile.
2. Veneers Don't Hurt
The fitting process for dental veneers is completely painless. Your dentist will remove a tiny amount of enamel from the surface of your tooth and then permanently bond the veneers to the prepared surface using strong dental cement.
3. Veneers Aren't Suitable for Everyone
There are some situations in which veneers may not be an option. For example, if your tooth enamel is very weak, then the dentist might not be able to create a strong bond between the prosthetic and your natural tooth. Similarly, if you have gum disease or serious tooth decay, you will need treatment to address the underlying problem first, before you can consider having cosmetic treatments like veneers.
4. The Costs of Dental Veneers Vary Widely
The costs of dental veneers vary depending on the number of veneers you need, the materials you want them to be made from, and the complexity of the fitting process. According to Dental Guide Australia, a single porcelain veneer can cost as much as $1,300. Composite veneers are a less expensive option; they can cost less than $500 each. However, porcelain veneers give the most natural appearance. Porcelain veneers are also very durable and resist staining, so they can be a great long-term investment. Composite veneers, on the other hand, can be fitted more quickly and are easier to repair.
If you're not sure whether dental veneers are right for you, contact your dentist to discuss the pros and cons of this treatment. After examining your teeth, your dentist can explain the cosmetic options that would be suitable for you, outline their costs, and help you come to an informed decision.
Share