As the most comprehensive way to quickly transform a smile, porcelain veneers are a popular choice for smile makeovers. If you’ve ever noticed that your favorite actor suddenly has perfect teeth overnight, porcelain veneers are usually the reason why. In fact, there’s a good chance someone you already know has veneers. They are the preferred treatment for anyone who wants to invest in the beauty of their smile.
However, veneers have been around for a long time, so there are a few outdated perceptions that have led to misinformed beliefs. If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about porcelain veneers, read on to learn the truth!
Considering cosmetic dentistry? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Farhana Rassiwala and we’ll help you understand your options for improving the appearance of your smile. Call our Dublin CA dental office at 925-833-9500 to make an appointment.
Myth 1 – Veneers Make Your Teeth Look Large and Fake
It’s true that, in their earlier forms, some porcelain veneers may have looked more like Chiclets gum than natural teeth! However, this is not the case today. Veneers are now about .3mm thick, on average. Some are only as thin as a contact lens. They are also more durable than in the past, thanks to advances in fabrication techniques and dental materials.
Best of all, veneers can be customized, so your aesthetic goals will determine the way your veneers look. They are a very versatile treatment, so your outcome can be based on your preferences. The final result will never be made permanent unless you are happy with the way they look.
Myth 2 – Veneers Damage Your Teeth
It’s true that teeth must be resurfaced in order for veneers to be securely attached. With today’s conservative methods, however, only a small amount of enamel is affected. Because veneers are very thin, only a small layer of tooth enamel is altered in the process. This does not mean your teeth are “damaged” or weakened by veneers. On the contrary, veneers are an excellent way to strengthen teeth that have experienced enamel erosion or become brittle with age.
It’s important to note that veneers are not reversible. This means that once you choose to have veneers, you cannot go back to not having them. Granted, this is also true for fillings and dental crowns. Most patients see veneers as no different from standard restorations, in this sense.
Myth 3 – Veneers are Only Aesthetic; They Serve No Beneficial Purpose
Perhaps most patients seek out veneers for their cosmetic value, but that doesn’t mean veneers don’t have any useful functions. Patients whose teeth have structural damage (often due to tooth grinding or enamel erosion) often choose veneers as a way to cover and protect their teeth from further damage. Veneers can also protect exposed tooth roots at the gum line. One can still break a tooth or get a cavity with veneers, but it’s not incorrect to think of them as a protective shield for teeth that have suffered excessive wear and tear.
Myth 4 – Veneers Don’t Last Very Long
Veneers are not made to last forever, but with proper care and responsible use, they often last 15 years or more. As long as you continue to see your dentist for routine care, however, he or she can keep an eye on your veneers and replace them individually when they begin to show signs of failure.
Myth 5 – You Can Only Get a Full Set of Veneers
Many patients choose to get veneers for all the teeth that show when they smile, but any combination can be applied. If you are mostly happy with your smile, but have two teeth that are smaller than the rest, for example—veneers can make those teeth larger and balance your smile. A single veneer can be applied to cover a stubborn tetracycline stain, as well.
As a flexible treatment option, you may not need a full set of veneers to achieve your dream smile. At Inspire Smiles, Dr. Rassiwala always favors conservative treatment, and will look for the simplest way to achieve your smile goals.
Contact Us to Learn More About Porcelain Veneers!
Porcelain veneers are one of the most popular treatments in cosmetic dentistry because they provide beautiful results. With advances in imaging technology, we can even show you your projected results before the treatment is made permanent. Ultimately, porcelain veneers give patients the freedom to design their dream smile and make it a reality.
Contact us at Inspire Smiles Dental to learn more about porcelain veneers in Dublin, CA. There is no implied expectation or risk with a cosmetic consultation. We are always happy to provide patients with information, so you can make an informed decision about improving your smile. Call us today at 925-833-9500 to make an appointment with Dr. Rassiwala.