Taken from Beverly Hills TMJ
By Dr. Laura Kearney
There are many different ways to improve the appearance of your teeth. While the best way to obtain a better smile naturally is with regular brushing, flossing, and teeth cleanings, if you have chipped, stained, or crooked teeth, veneers can help.
Should I Get Dental Veneers?
There are a number of conditions and cosmetic problems that veneers can help treat, including:
- Worn or chipped teeth
- Crooked or misshapen teeth
- Gaps or unequal spacing between teeth
- Stained teeth that cannot be bleached
- Sometimes professional whitening won’t get your teeth the exact shade you are looking for. If this is the case, veneers can give you maximum control over the color of your teeth
If you have trouble with any of the above, veneers may be the answer you’ve been looking for!
Pros and Cons of Dental Veneers
Pros
- You can get your teeth to look precisely how you want
- Results are immediate once veneers are placed
- Look just like natural teeth
- Less enamel needs to be removed compared to a dental crown or cap
Cons
- If you grind or clench your teeth, or have a habit of biting your fingernails or chewing ice, or anything else hard, you run the risk of damaging the veneers
- Need a lot of healthy tooth structure to place veneers
- Slight tooth sensitivity after placement, lasting only a few days
The Veneer Process
The first step in getting your own veneers is to meet with your dentist. Together you can discuss your unique needs and decide if veneers are truly the best option for you.
You will potentially have an option between porcelain veneers and composite veneers.
Porcelain Veneers
- Strong and long-lasting
- Don’t easily stain
- Tend to take a bit longer than composite resin. Typically you will get your veneers a week after your dentist makes a mold of your teeth.
Composite Resin Veneers
- Can sometimes get your veneers in one visit
- Less costly than porcelain veneers
- Not as strong as porcelain veneers and more prone to chipping, breaking, or staining though they are easily fixed
Dental Treatment Recommendations
Carefully consider the options available to you for improving your smile. Veneers are an excellent option for a variety of conditions.
Additionally, you will need to be sure that your teeth and gums are healthy before getting veneers. Your cosmetic dentist should be consulted to help treat any disease or decay prior to placing your veneers.
Overall, veneers are a quick and easy process to get your best smile. Ensure you make an appointment to consult with your dentist before making a decision. He or she can help you to weigh your options and figure out the best plan for you!
