Everything You Need To Know About Dental Veneers

Porcelain dental veneers are thin, tooth-colored shells of ceramic. Cosmetic dentists adhere them to the tooth surface to cover the entire tooth, hide imperfections, and improve the overall appearance of smiles. In this blog, we discuss everything people need to know about dental veneers.

Five Reasons Why People Get Veneers

Many people desire veneers for their front teeth to upgrade the look of their smile. Cosmetic dentists use veneers for the following reasons:

  • Hide deep tooth discoloration (for example, white stains from excessive fluoride)
  • Smooth out uneven teeth
  • Enlongnate smaller teeth
  • Improve the appearance of somewhat crooked teeth and small gaps
  • Camouflage chipped, cracked, or otherwise broken teeth

Potential Side Effects and Risks

Tooth enamel is the topical layer of the natural tooth. During veneer installation, the dentist removes enamel so that the veneer can firmly attach it to the teeth. Unfortunately, enamel does not grow back. Lack of enamel can leave people susceptible to:

  • Tooth decay
  • Dentin damage
  • Sensitivity to hot and cold foods.

How Long Veneers Last

The American Dental Association claims that porcelain veneers only last about 10 years. However, veneers may last longer than a decade when taken care of like natural teeth. To increase dental veneer lifespan, here are some precautions to practice:

  • Avoid chewing on hard objects: Veneers are strong but not invincible. Never use your teeth as tools because you can damage your veneers and natural teeth.
  • Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene: Even though the ceramic used to create veneers technically cannot experience decay or yellowing, the teeth underneath and adjacent can. Practice good oral hygiene at home by brushing and flossing regularly and visiting the dentist at least every six months for professional cleaning by a dental hygienist.
  • Wear a mouthguard: If you grind your teeth at night or play sports, wear oral protection to avoid potential damage.

When to Replace Veneers

As previously stated, veneers require enamel shaving. Because of this, once dentists place the veneers, a person cannot opt to remove or not use them. After a few years, you may notice that veneers eventually wear down and need replacement. Replacement is similar to veneer placement, which involves:

  • Filing down the old, excess cement
  • Creating a mold of the teeth
  • Using temporary veneers
  • Sending impressions to a dental laboratory for fabrication
  • Applying fresh dental cement to attach a new veneer

Cost of Porcelain Veneers

In 2023, many people wonder and search just how much veneers cost. The truth is that the price varies and largely depends on location, type of veneer chosen, and how many you get. On average, porcelain veneers cost upwards of $2,500 per tooth, but resin composite veneers, no-prep veneers, and temporary dental veneers are more affordable (but less durable) options. It’s important to note that veneers are classified as a cosmetic procedure, so dental insurance does not typically cover expenses under the cosmetic dentistry umbrella.

Schedule an Initial Consultation for Veneers in Valdosta, GA

At the first visit for traditional veneers, our cosmetic dentist evaluates individuals who want to improve the natural appearance of their smiles in a short amount of time. If you are interested in porcelain veneers or any other cosmetic procedures, call us at (229) 247-3400 or conveniently contact us online today.