Are Veneers Right for You?
One of the most common cosmetic dental procedures, veneers offer patients a variety of benefits. Whether you are looking to improve the appearance of your smile or gain confidence, consider veneers as a treatment option. Learn who and what veneers are suitable for, and what to expect, before making a decision.
When You Should Choose Veneers
The first step to determining whether veneers are the best option for you is having a dentist confirm your candidacy. Veneers require the patient to have healthy teeth and gums, and be committed to maintaining proper oral health. Typically, patients may have a specific cosmetic goal that they wish to address with veneers. These cosmetic issues can include chips, cracks, gaps, discoloration and misalignment.
For some, veneers may not be an option, whether it be due to unresolved oral health issues, or extreme cases of bruxism.
Alternative treatments to veneers may include the following, depending on your situation.
Dental bonding – For patients with insufficient enamel for veneers, or who prefer a less permanent resolution. A composite resin is sculpted, shaped, polished and adhered to the front of your teeth. However, bonding is not stain-resistant and is not as natural appearing as porcelain.
Teeth whitening – For patients who only wish to achieve enhanced color, teeth whitening is a quick and affordable alternative. However, whitening can only address extrinsic stains, and can not resolve discoloration due to trauma or fillings.
Dental crowns – Crowns cover the entire tooth all the way down to the gum line. A better option for those with significant structural tooth damage, this procedure is more invasive than veneers.
Orthodontics – While veneers can cover some gaps and misalignment, in severe cases, malpositioned teeth may need to be repositioned through an orthodontic solution. Advancements in this area now allow patients to correct a range of problems, while remaining discreet and comfortable for the duration of treatment.
What to Expect with Veneers
If you have chosen to pursue veneers, your dentist should help you understand what to expect. The cost of veneers ranges from $250 to $2,500 per tooth, but on average cost around $1,000 each. These prices can also vary based on the price of materials, such as composite, porcelain or ultra-thin laminates. Understand that in this case, quality costs more. Although more costly, more expensive materials like ceramic will ultimately last longer and be more cosmetically appealing.
Once your veneers are placed, you can expect them to last between 10 to 20 years. Patients should consider them to be a permanent cosmetic treatment, as veneers require the dentist to remove a layer of enamel to attach the porcelain. Therefore, veneers will need to be replaced as they degrade, or another form of restoration chosen. With this in mind, assume they will have to be replaced several times during your life. This does not include instances in which a veneer cracks or falls off.
If you are considering veneers, and want to learn how they can enhance the appearance of your teeth, call NK Family Dental. Our team will help address your oral health concerns and needs, and determine the best solution for you. We strive to identify treatment options that fit your needs.