Studies suggest that having a great smile can lead to a positive and healthy lifestyle. It can also boost one’s self-confidence. On the other hand, a not-so-perfect smile is often linked to stress, depression, and low self-esteem. It’s because people with missing, crooked, or stained teeth can’t smile confidently.
Dentists can help you hide these flaws through dental veneers so you can smile confidently once again.
What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are ultra-thin covers placed on the visible surface of the teeth. As such, they can hide your teeth’s imperfections. They’re usually made from porcelain or composite material.
Should You Go For Porcelain Or Composite?
Porcelain and composite are the common types of veneers your dentist will ask you to choose from. But what exactly are they?
- Porcelain Veneers. As the name implies, porcelain veneers are made from porcelain and custom made for your teeth. They are way more expensive compared to composite veneers and even require shaving the tooth a little. You also need to visit your dentist 2-3 times because its application takes longer. The good news is that they can last for up to 20 years, are relatively stain-resistant, and are less likely to get chipped or cracked. Best of all, they look like natural teeth.
- Composite Veneers. Composite veneers are made from resin, which is the same material used to bond teeth. Aside from costing less than porcelain veneers, composite veneers usually require only one dental visit. However, they can only last for about five years and are more likely to get chipped, cracked or stained. They may not be as translucent as the porcelain type, but composite veneers also look great.
So, what’s best to use? It depends on your teeth’s condition, your budget, and preference. In case you have other conditions, dentists in Beaches Dental Mona Vale may be able to help.
How Are They Attached?
There are two methods for attaching your veneers – direct or indirect. So, what’s the difference between the two?
- Direct Attachment
The direct attachment method is used for composite veneers. The process begins by cleaning and etching your tooth. Then, the dentist will apply the resin veneer and remove the excess from your tooth. After that, you’re good to go.
- Indirect Attachment
In the indirect attachment method used for porcelain veneers, the dentist will take moulds of your teeth. Thin enamel will then be removed from your tooth. It will have to be covered for at least two weeks before the process is completed.
What Are The Benefits Of Using Veneers?
Dental veneers usually address chipped, cracked, or stained teeth. But they can also fix some of your tooth problems, such as:
- Deformed Or Crooked Teeth
Veneers can copy the size and shape of your teeth to make your deformed or crooked teeth look uniform and properly aligned to adjacent teeth.
- Diastemas
Diastemas are small gaps between your teeth either on the upper or lower front teeth. Veneers can help cover such gaps and prevent unwanted shifting of the teeth.
What Are The Disadvantages?
It is important to note that veneers are irreversible. Once they have been applied, they cannot be easily removed or repaired. If your veneer got chipped or cracked, you have to replace it with a new one. Although they can last 15-20 years, they are not permanent. Once your teeth get shaved, you have to use veneers for the rest of your life to protect your teeth.
How Much Do They Cost?
The cost of a veneer depends on the type of material, the condition of your teeth and where you plan to have it. Dentists estimate the cost of veneers from USD$300 to USD$1500 for composite, and USD$1,000 to USD$4,000 for porcelain.
If your budget is tight but you still want to get one, ask your dentist if an instalment payment is an option.
What Should You Do After?
Dental veneers do not require any special treatment. It is recommended though to have at least two dental visits per year and follow good oral hygiene, such as brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash.
Final Words
So, the final question is, ‘Are they worth it?’ Well, that depends on how much you need them and how much money you are willing to spend. You may also want to consider alternative treatment, such as teeth whitening or braces if you’re not ready to have dental veneers. Also, the practical way to have perfect teeth is not by undergoing expensive procedures but by preventing problems. So, consistently observe good oral hygiene, and you’ll be able to save a lot of money.
