If you’ve looked into improving the appearance of your smile with dental veneers, you may have heard the myth that these appliances could damage your teeth. At Dental Associates, we have heard other misconceptions from our patients as well. We want to debunk these claims and show you how we can create a healthy smile you’ll be glad to share with family and friends.
Examining the Myths About Dental Veneers
Myth #1: Veneers could ruin your natural teeth.
Fact: With properly applied veneers, your teeth stay healthy and strong.
The myths about veneers harming your teeth started decades ago and do not account for advances in dental procedures and technology. Today, your dentist only needs to remove a few millimeters of enamel to allow the veneer to sit at the level of your natural tooth surface. Removing such a small sliver of enamel does not expose the dentin or make the tooth more vulnerable to decay or sensitivity.
Myth #2: Porcelain veneers quickly turn yellow.
Fact: Porcelain veneers are highly stain-resistant and stay bright longer than natural teeth.
The myth that porcelain veneers turn yellow quickly could be based in part on composite veneers. If you care for composite veneers properly and avoid staining food and beverages, you will not experience such a high level of discoloration. That said, composites are more prone to accumulating stains than porcelain, which keeps its brilliant shade for years.
Myth #3: Porcelain veneers are not safe to wear.
Fact: Porcelain is a biocompatible material, and its use in veneers and other dental applications has been studied for many years.
Porcelain veneers do not harm soft tissues or react to the gum in any way. These veneers last about 10 to 15 years with proper care.
Myth #4: When you get veneers, you can have them taken off and don’t have to replace them.
Fact: When we remove a sliver of enamel to place your veneers, it cannot regenerate. You will need to continue replacing the veneers as they wear out for the remainder of your tooth’s lifespan.
Myth #5: Instant veneers from a website are just as good as those that are professionally applied.
Fact: Patients should take extreme care with instant or “pop-in” veneers. These appliances may look good at first, but they carry significant risks.
The risks of instant veneers include:
- Enamel wear: Since these “veneers” rub against your natural enamel, they could wear it away over time.
- Tooth decay: Instant veneers trap plaque and food particles on and between the teeth, creating the perfect conditions for bacteria to grow and cause dental caries.
- Gum disease: Instant veneers could interfere with your gums, rubbing and damaging the tender tissue. They also keep saliva from naturally cleaning your gums, meaning that you are more prone to developing periodontal problems. Left unchecked, gum disease can cause tooth loss.
The Process of Getting Porcelain Veneers
Getting porcelain veneers is surprisingly simple. Most patients can complete the entire process in just two appointments. During the first appointment, the doctor sits down with you and discusses your needs and expectations. They help you decide how many teeth you want to cover and what material you should choose.
First, we take digital impressions of your natural teeth. This step ensures that your veneers match and fit flush against your tooth surface. We then prepare your teeth by removing a thin layer of natural enamel. After removing the enamel, we take more impressions to shape the side that touches your teeth. We send you home with temporary appliances to protect your prepared teeth.
After your veneers return from the dental laboratory, we will invite you back to have them installed. We use a special adhesive to bond the veneer to your prepared tooth surface. Finally, we polish and adjust the appliances to ensure they feel just right. You’ll leave this appointment feeling confident with your new smile.
Ask Your Family Dentist About Veneers
We hope that our guide has helped to clear your misconceptions and give you a more realistic concept of dental veneers. When applied by skilled dental professionals, veneers have a high success rate and cause very few, if any, unwanted side effects. When you show off your new smile, it will all be worth it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Veneers
Which are better: porcelain or composite veneers?
Porcelain veneers are considerably stronger than composites and have a beautiful luster resembling healthy tooth enamel. Composites can be a good choice in a talented cosmetic dentist’s hands, but most patients prefer porcelain because it is stain-resistant and longer-lasting.
What kinds of issues can veneers cover?
Veneers are a versatile solution. In just two appointments, you can correct multiple cosmetic issues at once. These issues include:
- Chipped teeth
- Stained teeth
- Slight misalignment
- Slight difference in shape
How long do porcelain veneers last?
Porcelain veneers typically last from 10 to 15 years, considerably longer than other cosmetic options like teeth whitening. When they chip, crack, or otherwise wear out, you will need to have them replaced.
How can I protect my veneers to help them last longer?
Protect your veneers from chips and cracks by avoiding biting hard foods or objects like ice or pens. Don’t use your teeth to open packages or hold items. Make sure to keep all scheduled check-up appointments.
Could I get cavities under my veneers?
It is possible for the natural tooth to decay under veneers, but if you practice excellent oral hygiene, there is a low risk. Practice excellent oral hygiene and you should be able to avoid these problems.
Dental Associates of Farmington, CT provides porcelain dental veneers for a long-lasting, brilliant smile. We would love to show you how these appliances can improve your smile while keeping your natural teeth healthy and strong. Please call us today to schedule your consultation!