Cosmetic dentistry procedures are constantly being developed and updated to improve the health and appearance of your teeth. Arguably, the most common of these is dental veneers, which are known for their ability to provide patients with a pearly white smile. That being said, many prospective veneer patients do not know the specific dental issues that veneers can solve. Today, we answer the question, “What problems can veneers solve?” and share details about the treatment so you can determine if it is right for you.

Types of Veneers

In the same way that you may peruse a number of clothing options when choosing the perfect outfit, you will also need to browse the many available options for veneers to determine which one will best suit you. Each option comes complete with benefits and drawbacks, so you and your dentist must work together to find the best option for your unique smile.

Keep in mind that veneers are not an appropriate option if you have any form of gum disease, extensive cavities, weakened enamel, severe tooth decay, or grind your teeth. Consult with your dentist to determine if you are a good candidate for dental veneers or if another dental procedure would be more effective at treating your concerns.

Composite Veneers

Composite veneers utilize tooth-colored composite resin to make teeth appear whiter. These cosmetic enhancers are best used to conceal mild cosmetic concerns. The many benefits of composite veneers include the following:

They are durable.
They are chip-resistant.
They are smooth in texture.
They are easily repairable.
They are quick to install. (They can be completed in as little as one visit.)
They are more affordable than porcelain veneers.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain is the most frequently chosen material for veneers. Porcelain veneers have been employed in dental care since the 1930s and remain the top choice for veneers because of their reliability. A few benefits of porcelain veneers include the following:

They are stain-resistant.
They are analogous in color and texture to natural teeth.
They are durable.
They do not harm the gum tissue.
They are long-lasting. (They typically last 10 to 15 years with proper care.)

Lumineers

Lumineers are made to be extremely thin, so a patient’s smile looks and feels more natural than it might with other veneer options. Some additional benefits of Lumineers are:

They are less costly than porcelain veneers.
They require minimal prep work.
They are reversible.
They are extremely long-lasting. (Lumineers can have a lifespan of almost 20 years.)

It is important to note that Lumineers do come with drawbacks. Specifically, their thin quality means that they are more easily damaged.

Removable Veneers

Removable veneers snap on and function similarly to orthodontic aligners. They are less invasive than any other type of veneer, cost-effective, and impermanent. A few benefits of removable veneers include:

They change your teeth instantly.
They are easily removed and cleaned.
They offer protection from further dental concerns while waiting for a permanent solution.

What Problems Can Veneers Solve?

Discoloration

A common concern among many people is discoloration of their teeth. This problem can be easily solved with the application of veneers. A wide variety of things like coffee, berries, or tobacco can cause your teeth to yellow and stain, but veneers offer a mask for the discoloration. The result is a beautiful, natural-looking, and uniform smile.

Structural Imperfection

Veneers can effectively address structural imperfections in the teeth. Specifically, this cosmetic enhancement can cover chips, cracks, and other damages in the teeth to create a smooth and even surface.

Gaps and Misalignments

Veneers are also capable of correcting minor misalignments and gaps in your teeth. This treatment is beneficial if you are seeking a quicker and less intrusive solution than traditional orthodontics. That being said, veneers are not suitable for correcting significant gaps or misalignments in the teeth. Those are better treated with orthodontic treatment.

Conclusion

Dental veneers are a valuable and effective solution for a broad spectrum of cosmetic dental concerns. Their ability to correct discoloration, chipping, minor misalignments, and gaps makes them a popular choice among those seeking to enhance and restore their smile. If you have cosmetic dental problems you would like to correct, consult with the team of dental professionals at Cleopatra Dental Riverside to determine if you are a good candidate for veneers. Our dental team will guide you through the process and help you achieve your perfect smile.