Do you have chipped, badly discolored, misshapen, or slightly crooked teeth? You might be considering dental veneers, but are wondering about the advantages and drawbacks of dental veneers.
There are several types of veneers, and each has its own pros and cons. Our dentists have helped countless patientsdetermine if veneers in Las Cruces is right for them, and we are glad to help you explore the possibilities of getting veneers to improve your smile.
Benefits of Dental Veneers in Las Cruces
Dental veneers look just like natural teeth – only better
Veneers have a warm, translucent appearance that looks just like your natural teeth, only without the stains, chips, or other issues that detract from the natural appeal of your smile. Porcelain veneers are especially natural-looking, although composite veneers look great too.
Dental veneers are a quick way to improve your smile
Aside from a consultation, getting dental veneers requires only two visits to your dentist. During the first visit, your dentist will listen to your goals and desires, help you determine which type of dental veneer is right for you, and prepare the surface of your teeth to receive the veneer. Your dentist will perform a dental evaluation and may also take x-rays. Your dentist will also fit you with temporary veneers to protect the prepared teeth.
When your veneers are ready, which will be about two weeks, you’ll go back to your dentist. During this visit, your dentist adheres the veneers to the surfaces of your teeth. Your dentist will make any last-minute adjustments before permanently bonding the veneers to your teeth.
Dental veneers cost
The cost of dental veneers may seem like a drawback at first glance, as dental veneers cost anywhere from $800 to $1,500 or more per tooth, depending on the type of veneers and other factors. However, veneers help keep your smile looking its best for many years – much longer than teeth whitening and other types of cosmetic dentistry services, so the one-time investment in dental veneers pays off in the long run.
Dental veneers can be customized to fit your cosmetic needs
Your dentist can customize your dental veneers to fit the symmetry of your face and your personal style. Your veneers can be rounded to look very feminine, for example, or squared off to look masculine.
Veneers last for many years
Despite being wafer-thin, dental veneers are sturdier than you might realize. With good care, composite veneers can last about 5 years before they need replacement, for example. Porcelain veneers keep your smile looking its best for about 10 years or even longer.
Dental veneers are stain-resistant
Natural tooth enamel is porous, which means it can absorb stain-causing components of certain foods and beverages. Dental veneers are not porous, so they are more resistant to change.
Veneers are easy to care for
Dental hygiene is easy with veneers – simply use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste.
Downsides of Dental Veneers
Veneers are irreversible
Even though they are wafer-thin, dental veneers still take up space inside your mouth. To create enough room for your new veneers, your dentist must remove a small amount of tooth enamel from the front of each tooth to be treated. This procedure is permanent and it requires the tooth be forever covered with a veneer or dental crown for protection.
You may benefit from dental work before you get veneers
For optimal results from your veneers, your teeth need to be in the best condition possible. You wouldn’t want to need a root canal after you get your veneers, for example, so it would be wise to have all cavities filled prior to getting veneers.
Insurance does not cover the cost of veneers
Unfortunately, dental and health insurance companies view veneers as cosmetic, so they do not cover the costs of dental veneers.
To learn more about the pros and cons of veneers, contact the cosmetic dentistry professionals at Las Cruces Dental Solutions. Our dental professionals offer veneers in Las Cruces, along with a wide variety of other dental services. We are a full-service practice with multiple doctors, so we are the local authority in all things dental. Contact Las Cruces Dental Solutions by calling (575) 527-4746 or request an appointment online.
