Dental veneers have made major improvements to the smiles of people worldwide. However, they’re not for everyone. If you’re thinking about getting veneers, it’s important you understand that they aren’t a miracle cure. They can work wonders for your teeth, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t without their own disadvantages. Here’s a look at some of the pros and cons of veneers.
Pros
They’re easy to take care of.
Veneers are resistant to stains and don’t require any other maintenance besides brushing and flossing.- They feel natural.
Your dentist will remove a thin layer of enamel from your teeth to make room for your veneers, which means that they won’t feel uncomfortable or bulky. You’ll probably be aware of their presence at first, but they should begin to feel more natural quickly.
- They look great.
Many people with poor teeth feel like they are unsightly or holding them back in social situations. Veneers provide you with a great smile, which often leads to a corresponding boost in self-confidence.
- They’re quick to apply.
The actual application of your veneers should not take much time. Dentists can generally have a full set applied in less than two hours. If you’re only having certain teeth covered, the process will be even shorter.
- They’re expensive.
High-quality porcelain veneers can run anywhere from $500 to $2500 per tooth, depending on where you live and who you’re getting them from. Composite resin veneers are a bit more affordable, but they can still cost between $250 and $1500 per tooth. Since veneers are a form of cosmetic dentistry, most insurance plans will not cover them, which means that you’ll be paying out of pocket.
- They have to be replaced.
While they don’t require frequent maintenance, your veneers will need to be replaced at some point. Porcelain veneers last roughly 15 to 20 years, but composite ones have a much shorter lifespan of five to seven years.
- They might not be for you.
There are certain dental conditions that might disqualify you from getting dental veneers. These include tooth decay, periodontal disease, weak teeth, or a lack of enamel.
- They’re not invincible.
While veneers can normally withstand the wear and tear of everyday use, they’re not completely impervious to damage. If you frequently grind your teeth or eat extra-hard foods, you run the risk of them chip.
