Oral and dental health has come a long way. Now, if we have chipped, cracked or discolored teeth that are preventing us from smiling from ear to ear we have more than one option on how to have it fixed.
One of these options that a lot of people are choosing is veneers, a cosmetic dentistry quick fix to remedy those embarrassing dental issues. Veneers, often made out of porcelain are thin shells designed to cover the imperfect tooth or teeth.
There are numerous benefits to this solution to your dental woes, of course, there are also limitations. Read below the advantages and disadvantages and discuss them with your dentist to find out whether having veneers is the way to go.
Benefits
One of the obvious benefits to getting veneers is that you would be able to smile confidently. Since veneers are considered to be a procedure under cosmetic dentistry, it does not necessarily affect your oral or dental health, just your self-esteem which is equally important and worth investing to. If you feel conscious when you are speaking or whenever you open your mouth because you are embarrassed other people will see your broken, discolored or misshapen tooth or teeth, veneers would hide these flaws without being too overt.
It would still look natural and realistic. You also would not need to worry about discoloration because porcelain dental veneers are stain resistant. So, go ahead and enjoy drinking your daily cup of coffee or tea without having to worry about them staining your smile. If you are smoking, you also would not need to worry that this habit would stain your newly fixed teeth. Another benefit of veneers is that it is less invasive compared to other procedures. If you are a bit squeamish and afraid of more intrusive dental procedures, opt for veneers.
Limitations
Veneers are still vulnerable to breaking and chipping off. They are not indestructible as one could hope so. But if you would care for them like you would your normal and natural teeth, they could still serve their purpose for a long time. After getting the veneers, you might feel a slight discomfort when drinking or eating hot and cold food and beverages.
This is because although it is less invasive than other treatments, your tooth or teeth’s enamel were still exposed, making them sensitive. But no need to worry since this sensitivity will only last for a couple of days. Veneers are also permanent so if you are still not decided, don’t go for it. Once the veneers are fixed to your teeth, you could not get them removed. You would need to wait for 16-20 years. If you think that 16-20 years are too long of a commitment, try plastic veneers instead that only lasts for 7 years.
Now that you are aware of the benefits and limitations of veneers, it would be easier for you to make an informed decision. Nevertheless, still factor in the professional advice of your dentist. After all, they are the ones who are more knowledgeable when it comes to your dental and oral health.
