3 Common Misconceptions About Veneers
Porcelain veneers are one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry options on the market today due to their durability and overall aesthetic. These custom-made shells of porcelain are attached to the front surface of teeth and permanently bonded in place in order to improve the shape, color, and overall integrity of your teeth. However, there are still multiple misconceptions surrounding porcelain veneers. Let’s dive into three of the most common misconceptions when it comes to the treatment deemed as the “instant smile makeover:”
#1: Veneers are only used for cosmetic purposes
It’s no secret that porcelain veneers are often only thought of as “just for show” and a boost in appearance. Porcelain veneers are unquestionably a great option for cosmetic reasons because they are stain-resistant and they look natural. But veneers aren’t just for making sure your smile is always camera-ready; they are also extremely functional. Teeth that are chipped, broken, misaligned, or discolored can be easily fixed with veneers. And because porcelain is such a high-quality material, veneers can protect your teeth from impending damage and acidic foods.
Of course, the function of your veneer and whether you actually need them for reasons other than cosmetics will ultimately depend on your own personal circumstances. For some, a dental crown may be the better route to take contingent on prior damage to your teeth or the current health of your teeth. Everyone’s dental cases will be different, so talk to your local dentist to learn about which is best for you.
#2: Veneers are expensive and unaffordable
Because dental veneers carry a star-status quality, many dental patients see them as a luxury item. In some cases, dental veneers can be very pricey, but they can most definitely be budget-friendly. According to the American Dental Association, an average person can expect to pay between $925 and $2,500 per tooth. Taking into account this costly price, it’s important to keep in mind that porcelain veneers should be seen as a worthy investment rather than as a pricey cosmetic procedure. On average, and when cared for safely, dental veneers can last between 10-20 years. Dental veneers are made of the highest quality and they’re also carefully custom-crafted to fit your specific needs. Think of it in a fashion sense— of course, you’ll pay a little bit more for a custom pair of shoes rather than a set that you can pick up at any local store.
And as stated earlier, dental veneers are not only used for cosmetic purposes, which means you may not need a full-set depending on your circumstances. This will lower the price substantially. Although the price of veneers is quite affordable for many, don’t forget to take into account factors such as your geographic location and personal financing options. It is highly likely that your local family dentist in Lafayette, LA may offer porcelain veneers at a price much lower than a dentist in another city. Always contact your dentist for prices, financing options, and get their opinion on how many veneers you’ll need.
#3: Getting veneers is painful
If you’ve been led to believe that getting veneers is a complicated and painful process, then think again! Before your local dentist bonds the veneers to your teeth, they will reduce the teeth’s thickness by filing down some of your natural teeth structure. Don’t be alarmed by this process though as it is completely normal. When receiving your veneers, your dentist will inject an anesthetic into the gums surrounding the tooth which will numb your mouth. Upon receiving your veneers, know that they are completely comfortable and pain-free. They may take some getting used to, with some sensitivity and soreness every now and then, but the pay-off is well worth it.
If any type of dental procedure still gives you some discomfort or anxiety, then sedation dentistry is always an option. Depending on your level of displeasure, Dr. Maestri offers three primary methods of sedation dentistry: nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and nitrous oxide with oral sedation. The option that you choose will need to be discussed with your local dentist at your initial consultation as they can answer any questions you may have.
Multiple misconceptions in the dental community may have you reconsidering your options, whether it’s veneers, implants, or crowns. It’s always a good idea to reach out to your local dentist to discuss your options and receive the best advice possible from a trustworthy source. Contact us today if you have any questions regarding your dental health so that our team can assist you to the best of our ability.
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