Dental veneers are one of the most popular cosmetic solutions today, as they can provide instant results and solve a variety of issues. But are veneers good for your teeth? In this article, we address this question and talk about the advantages and potential drawbacks of dental veneers.
Are Veneers Good for Your Teeth?
There is no single definitive answer to the question of whether veneers are good for your teeth. The initial condition of your teeth, your oral health, and your cosmetic concerns will determine whether veneers should be recommended for you. Let us look at the cases where dental veneers can be an effective cosmetic solution.
- Extensive staining and discoloration on the teeth that is not responsive to dental cleanings, whitening, or remineralizing procedures
- Cracks or chips on the teeth
- Minor gaps between the teeth
- Teeth of uneven shape or size
- Teeth that need to be elongated as part of a “gummy” smile treatment
Dental veneers do not treat these issues, but mask them, covering the entire front side of a tooth like a shell. Veneers are usually made of porcelain that is slightly translucent and looks very natural in the mouth. You can choose the shade of your veneers to ensure they blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
Are There Potential Side Effects of Dental Veneers?
Some patients may be advised against getting dental veneers due to oral health issues. The reason for that lies in the way veneers are attached to your teeth. The tooth has to be prepared for veneer placement by being filed down (removal of a portion of its enamel). Enamel removal is necessary to ensure the veneer fits seamlessly among the surrounding teeth, allowing it to feel natural and comfortable.
This makes dental veneer placement an irreversible procedure since teeth with limited enamel require the protection provided by veneers.
Cases when veneers can be harmful to your oral health include:
- If too much of the enamel is filed down, it can permanently weaken the tooth, increase sensitivity, and make it more prone to decay. Also, poorly bonded veneers can trap bacteria and irritate gums. To minimize these side effects, it is crucial to select a reputable and experienced cosmetic dentist to perform the procedure.
- Veneers should never be placed on teeth with untreated cavities or if gum disease is present. Covering decay with a veneer traps bacteria inside, leading to more serious infections and possible tooth loss.
- Veneers are not recommended for severely worn, broken, or structurally weak teeth. In such cases, crowns are often a better option because they provide more coverage and reinforcement to the tooth.
- Sometimes, veneers are used to hide misaligned teeth, bite problems, or severe discoloration, rather than addressing the underlying cause. It is always better to prioritize your oral health and opt for orthodontic treatment or remineralization solutions, along with improved oral hygiene, before considering veneers.
Veneers are safe and effective when placed on healthy teeth by an experienced dentist. Additionally, we recommend opting for veneers only if other treatments have been explored and have not produced the desired results. Otherwise, veneers can weaken teeth and even accelerate damage.
When considering veneers, ensure that your cosmetic dentist is experienced and has the necessary knowledge to determine if you are a suitable candidate for dental veneers.
Make an Appointment at TruGlo Modern Dental Beverly Hills
Do not hesitate to make an appointment with an experienced dentist at TruGlo Modern Dental Beverly Hills if you are considering dental veneers. At our office, we offer high-quality and long-lasting veneers to our clients so they can regain their smile confidence.
