Veneers are a common dental treatment option for people with tiny, discolored, chipped, gapped, or slightly misaligned teeth. Dental veneers are a thin, porcelain shell (similar to a fingernail) that is applied to the front of the teeth to improve their look.
Dental veneers are a wonderful approach to achieving the white and attractive smile of your dreams. Unfortunately, many people have prejudices regarding veneers that keep them from considering this option. Here is a list of six myths about dental veneers that should be addressed ASAP.
1. Porcelain veneers are only suitable for front teeth
This is a yes/no question. The advantage of veneers is that they provide an excellent cover to conceal noticeable flaws in your teeth. But they can also be installed on your lower front teeth or your "premolars."
It all depends on your goals and how noticeable your teeth are when you laugh or smile. Many people notice the top six front teeth the most, while others may benefit from lower or premolar changes. Before determining which of your teeth may benefit from veneers, a dentist will evaluate your smile and pay attention to your concerns.
2. Veneers are quite obvious
One popular myth concerning veneers is that they may be spotted by others. Because of developments in dental technology, doctors can now give patients with custom veneers that are particular to the form, size, thickness, and color of their teeth. Because of this, veneers mimic natural teeth and are usually invisible to everyone except your dentist.
3. Veneers can get stained
Porcelain veneers, unlike tooth enamel, are not porous and can be discolored by red wine, coffee, tea, and other foods. Porcelain, unlike tooth enamel, does not change color due to smoking or high-pigmented foods and drinks. That is one of the reasons why veneers are a popular option for people who want to improve their smile.
Coffee drinkers will require more frequent maintenance since even after a teeth whitening procedure, their teeth will eventually get stained again. However, with porcelain veneers, your white smile will remain considerably longer.
4. Getting veneers is painful
Many people have heard the myth that getting veneers is a painful procedure. Contrary to popular belief, this is untrue. Dentists use a local anesthetic to numb the region surrounding the teeth of concern during major dental treatments. This will not only calm you but will also give you a pain-free veneer application. If you are in discomfort following your treatment, visit your dentist to resolve the issue.
5. Dental veneers are not long-lasting
While biting down hard on solid foods can chip a dental veneer, this is uncommon. Many people have veneers for many years without damage. Porcelain and composite veneers are both durable enough to withstand everyday chewing and biting for many years.
Veneers might fail if the teeth beneath them become damaged. However, you may lower your chances of this by practicing proper oral hygiene and seeing your dentist on a regular basis. Brush veneers with fluoride toothpaste on a regular basis, exactly like your natural teeth, and floss around the veneers to eliminate remains of food and plaque.
6. Dental veneers are available to everyone
Not everyone is a good candidate for dental veneers. People with thin enamel, for example, may be unable to get dental veneers since the dentist must remove some enamel in order to roughen the teeth. Dental veneers are also not recommended for people who have untreated gum disease. However, if you undergo gum disease treatment, you may be able to have veneers after your gums are recovered.