Pros and Cons of Dental Veneers

Slightly crooked or spaced teeth can be treated with braces or other orthodontic treatments, but according to the Australian Dental Association, these problems can sometimes be helped with dental veneers. Porcelain veneers are bonded to the facial surfaces of your teeth permanently. Veneers can camouflage minor orthodontic problems (spaces between the front teeth, crooked teeth, chipped or worn teeth). Your natural teeth may still be spaced or slightly crooked, but nobody will know aside from you and your dentist.

It's important to note that veneers can't always replace orthodontic treatment, and your dentist may refer you to an orthodontist instead of placing veneers, depending what your dental diagnosis is.

Enamel is strong, but not indestructible. Your enamel may become worn down from the consumption of highly acidic foods and drinks, which may be in conjuction with overzealous tooth brushing. The stomach acid associated with acid reflux disease can also damage your enamel. This can be a cause for concern, because lost enamel doesn't grow back. Fortunately, veneers are an excellent treatment for teeth with worn enamel due to erosion and/or abrasion, and they are aesthetically pleasing improving your smile.

The price of veneers will vary based on where you live, whether your dentist or a prosthodontist is recommended and the number of teeth you want restored. They can be expensive.

Some people experience an increase in tooth sensitivity after getting veneers which typically subsides over time. According to the Australian Government Department of Health, you may feel tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. Tooth sensitivity is uncomfortable and inconvenient, but you can manage it with the right dental products.

Veneers are considered an irreversible procedure because your dentist needs to change the structure of your natural teeth to properly place them; the outer layer of your enamel may be removed to make room for the veneer to be placed on the tooth.

Dental veneers are an excellent way to hide discoloured, crooked or damaged teeth, but it's important to weigh the pros and cons when considering them as a solution to your dental problems. Consider making an appointment with your dentist so he or she can evaluate whether dental veneers are an option for you to enhance your beautiful smile.