Advice from a Dentist: Are Veneers Worth It?
We all deserve to have our dream smile, but sometimes it just isn’t possible to naturally achieve our ideal look. This is particularly true for people with crowded, misshapen, or uneven teeth, and patients often find the condition of their smile to be quite distressing. So, what’s the solution?
The truth is that there are many possible ways to address these concerns, but one of the most popular solutions is to invest in veneers. In fact, veneers are one of the fastest growing cosmetic dental procedures, having increased in frequency by 250 percent since the year 2000.
But are veneers worth it? And are they the best solution for every patient? These are questions that need to be considered prior to making a final decision. Let’s take a closer look at what veneers are, who they are most suitable for, and why you should (or should not) get them.
What Are Veneers?
A veneer is a thin, custom-made cap (or shell) that is applied to the front of a tooth to achieve a more pleasing, uniform appearance. Typically more than one veneer is required to create a seamless smile, with the exception of fixing a single cracked or chipped tooth.
Veneers can be made from two different materials:
Composite Resin
Composite resin veneers require the least amount of time to apply and are often used to fix minor imperfections such as cracks, discoloration, or slight malformities. They are a much more economical option as well, with a single composite veneer costing approximately $250.00.
Porcelain
Porcelain veneers are the most durable and are also extremely resistant to staining, making them ideal for patients who want a long lasting, sparkling smile. They are, however, the most expensive option at nearly $1,000.00 per tooth, which can be a major drawback for many patients.
Why Would You Get Veneers?
There are a few different scenarios where veneers would be the best cosmetic dental procedure for you. These scenarios include:
You’re Dissatisfied With Gaps in Your Smile
Gaps between the teeth are one of the most prevalent reasons patients start to wonder are veneers worth it? Expertly applied veneers can fill in gaps while also maintaining a natural and symmetrical appearance. Additionally, veneers can actually prevent bacteria and other causes of tooth decay from penetrating tooth enamel, which is an important consideration on the list of veneers pros and cons.
You Want a Solution That’s Easy to Maintain
This is another important factor that patients should be informed of when asking “Why get veneers?”. Veneers are extremely durable and non-intrusive. Many patients even forget they have them after just a few weeks! You can continue brushing and flossing your teeth as you normally would, making them a convenient and realistic solution that won’t interfere with your existing everyday routine.
You’re Tired of Living With Stubborn Staining
Are dental veneers worth it for correcting stains? There are a wide range of reasons why teeth begin to stain. It could be due to habits like cigarette smoking or drinking red wine, it could be linked to an underlying oral health condition, or it could be caused by a medication you are taking.
Whatever the reason might be, some individuals are simply more prone to severe tooth staining than others — and veneers are an excellent way to restore a pristine, pearly white appearance. Plus, porcelain veneers in particular are highly resistant to staining, so you can be certain your smile will be sparkling for years to come.
You Want to Avoid Revisiting Your Dentist’s Office
Are veneers a good idea as a long-term solution? Composite resin veneers last approximately five years, while porcelain veneers can last 10 years or longer. So if you’re looking for a more permanent solution to your smile concerns, the answer is yes!
You Don’t Mind Paying For Perfection
If your smile is affecting your self-esteem or causing you any type of distress, your main priority is likely fixing the problem and feeling your best. Veneers are one of the most effective ways to correct common teeth problems and to create a beautiful, symmetric smile. If that is your ultimate goal, chances are the cost of veneers will be a justifiable expense for you.
Veneers: Pros and Cons
The Pros of Composite Veneers
More affordable than porcelain veneers
Require the least amount of time to apply
Provide a subtle and natural appearance
Very minimal shaving of the enamel to prepare the tooth for application
The Cons of Composite Veneers
More prone to staining than porcelain veneers
Do not last as long as porcelain veneers
Are less durable
Not suitable for major dental reparations
The Pros of Porcelain Veneers
Most durable and long-lasting option
More stain resistant than composite veneers
Provide a more dramatic and brilliant appearance
Suitable for major dental reparations
The Cons of Porcelain Veneers
Most expensive to install
Require more time to apply
Require some shaving of the enamel to prepare the tooth for application
Most expensive to repair or replace
Are Composite Veneers Worth It?
Yes, composite veneers are absolutely worth the investment if:
You’re looking for an affordable solution to minor chips, malformities, or discoloration
You’d prefer to address your dental concerns as quickly as possible
You would like to avoid shaving down the enamel of your natural teeth
You want a solution that won’t be expensive to maintain
You’re looking for an understated yet visually appealing final outcome
Are Porcelain Veneers Worth It?
Yes, porcelain veneers are absolutely worth the investment if:
You are willing to pay more for a pristine, luminous smile
You want to address major dental concerns like severe crowding or misalignment
You are okay with shaving down some of the enamel on your natural teeth to achieve your dream smile
You’re prepared to pay more for future repairs or replacements
You want a striking and sparkling white final result
Conclusion
If you’re hoping for a beautiful smile that’s easy to maintain, one of your best options is veneers. Worth it? We’d say so!
Now that you’ve researched veneers and teeth, pros and cons, and general costs, you’re halfway there! Moving forward with confidence is the most important part of any dental procedure. All that’s left to do now is book a consultation with the team of friendly, knowledgeable, and experienced dental professionals at Gentry Dentistry. For the best veneers in San Francisco, leave it in the hands of the experts at Gentry Dentistry. We’re confident after your appointment you’ll be done asking “Are veneers worth it?” and asking “Why didn’t I do this sooner?” instead!