Have you ever experienced talking to someone too close that you started to feel conscious about how your teeth looked to the other person? Well, you’re not alone. Many people have been in that situation where dental problems get in the way for them to feel confident about their smile. Two of the most common problems include having yellowing teeth and cracked or malformed tooth. These are rather embarrassing to discuss with anyone no matter how we say it, that’s why most individuals who are suffering from such cases turn to their dentists for a solution. The dentists’ most common answer: dental veneers.

Woman with Veneers

What are Veneers?

Veneers were introduced by cosmetic dentistry as the solution for those who have discolored teeth which seemed impervious to a whitening procedure, as well as for those with chipped or deformed teeth. Dental veneers are often made of porcelain which color tends to imitate the natural enamel of the teeth, although resin composite material can also be used. Shells of veneers are applied on the front surface, creating an illusion of a cleaner, uniformed set of teeth. They can change the color, size and shape of the teeth instantly by being bonded onto the surface.

The difference between the resin and porcelain veneers is that the former is thinner compared to the latter which also reflects light in a more natural way. It depends on your dentist to decide which material suits your case.

Pros of Getting Porcelain Veneers

There are several benefits of getting veneers for your teeth. Among them are as follows:

• Stain-proof – You will no longer have to worry about teeth discoloration because your teeth now have a smooth surface which make them resistant to staining. This is ideal if you don’t wish to give up drinking coffee or eating stuff that contain active coloring agents.
• Durable – Your veneers can last up to two decades with proper maintenance and a healthy lifestyle. That amounts to over a thousand dollars in dental consultations and surgeries.
• Instant results – As the procedure only takes two visits, you will never have to wait to see if anything has changed, unlike when you opted for other corrective treatments such as applying brackets.

Cons of Getting Porcelain Veneers

While you can have the advantages of getting veneers for your teeth, there is also the negative side of it. Here are some of its disadvantages that you must prepare for:

• Cost – This does not come cheap. The more teeth that need to be corrected or covered, the more you spend your money.
• Heightened sensitivity – The procedure involves the removal of the enamel, hence you may become more sensitive to hot and cold food or beverages.
• Fragile and not maintenance-free – Veneers can be broken when you grind your teeth or tear hard food, but as long as you are careful you can avoid most of the potential difficulties.

Despite the risks associated with dental veneers, the positive effects of it overshadow the negatives. They are still recommended for those who want to achieve a better smile.