What are Dental Veneers, and How Do They Work? Pros and Cons

Find out how dental veneers can enhance your smile by fixing cracked, discolored, or uneven teeth. Learn about the procedure, benefits, and potential drawbacks to help you decide if veneers are the right choice.

What are Dental Veneers, and How Do They Work? Pros and Cons

Dental veneers are coverings attached to the front of teeth to enhance their appearance. Saskatoon Dental Clinic utilises them as cosmetic procedures. Veneers are probably a part of the term "Hollywood Smile," if you know it. Depending on your requirements, veneers may be more suitable for you than others. Veneers are designed to enhance the look of your smile, combine seamlessly with your natural teeth, need minimal maintenance, and have a lifespan of over 10 years. However, they can be costly and necessitate the elimination of a portion of the tooth enamel. Today, this guide will delve into the world of dental veneers, how they work, and the benefits and risks of having them.

What Are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made frames designed to hide the teeth's front surfaces and enhance their appearance. The attachment of these casings to the teeth changes the teeth's colour, shape, size, or length. Veneers are a quick and durable solution that can achieve a perfect smile, addressing various dental issues with a solution that appears and feels natural.

How Do Dental Veneers Work?

Here, we discuss how dental veneers work. Let's get started!

Procedure

The dentist will perform several procedures to guarantee the appropriate installation of dental veneers during the procedure. The steps of the procedure are outlined below:

  • Cleaning will be performed to guarantee that the tooth and its adjacent teeth are clean and free of debris.

  • The dentist must shave the enamel down to scratch the tooth's surface.

  • The tooth will be treated with composite bonding to ensure the veneer attaches.

  • After the bonding has been fully set, the dental veneer will be expertly positioned and fitted.

  • The dental veneer will be carefully removed to eliminate unnecessary or leftover material. 

The dentist may incorporate or suggest patient-specific measures, such as using dentures in place of dental veneers, despite the fact that the steps mentioned earlier are fairly common for all individuals. The dentist will highlight any additional procedures during the initial consultation. 

Goal

Dental veneers are a flexible treatment option that can address various cosmetic or restorative issues. The tooth's function, appearance, size, or shape below dental veneers will be enhanced. Ultimately, they improve the individual's aesthetics and capacity to chew and consume as they would normally. The following are examples of issues that dental veneers can resolve. 

  • Teeth that are fractured or cracked

  • Teeth stains that are not friendly to teeth whitening

  • Breaks or fractures

  • Teeth that are excessively short or small in comparison to their neighbours

  • Rough areas or sharp edges

Pros and Cons of Dental Veneers

Not everyone can use veneers, but their pros and cons can aid you in selecting the best one. Additionally, veneers of various varieties hold different advantages and disadvantages. For instance, porcelain veneers are more costly than composite veneers but are more long-lasting and stain-resistant. Check out the following advantages and disadvantages of dental veneers:

Pros

Veneers can assist individuals in achieving teeth that are more similar in colour and whiter. This can enhance confidence by hiding discoloured, chipped, or cracked teeth and combining them with their natural colour. They are more effective at preventing stains than natural enamel and require no additional maintenance. The appropriate aftercare can extend their lifespan to 10–15 years. Although some enamel removal is frequently required, a dentist from West14Dental does not need to remove as much as other dental procedures may necessitate.

Cons

Most veneers require the removal of natural enamel, which a dentist must do before the veneers are placed. Porcelain and composite veneers are also permanent and can increase the teeth's responsiveness to temperature fluctuations. Veneers may also fracture or become displaced, particularly in individuals who crush their teeth or tighten their mouths. Additional procedures may be necessary to reattach, repair, or replace the veneer if it has been fractured or removed. Veneers may also be too costly for many people, regardless of the availability of more cost-effective options. Unfortunately, insurance companies often turn down veneers due to their cosmetic nature. Additionally, these dental veneers are occasionally incorporated into cosmetic dentistry procedures.  

It is also essential to be aware that many unlicensed "veneer specialists" exist and operate, and these services are associated with a risk of dental infection and nerve injury.

Before committing to the treatment, use the American Association of Dental Boards' directory to find licensed cosmetic dentists who can guarantee its safety and risk-free nature.

The Bottom Line

Dental veneers are a permanent and effective solution for whitening and straightening teeth that are fractured, chipped, or discoloured. Dental veneers are not simply a dental treatment; they are an essential step toward the oral health and confidence you deserve, as they can address a wide range of conditions and are a procedure that values your comfort and appearance. Commit to licensed cosmetic dental professionals before starting treatment to mitigate the risks of nerve injury and infection. Moreover, keep in mind that dental veneers are not suitable for everyone. Therefore, if you are concerned about your teeth, it is advisable to consult with your dentist in Saskatoon to explore all other possible options.

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