Are dental veneers healthy and minimally invasive?

Dental veneers are a cosmetic enhancement for your teeth. They attach to the front side of your front row of teeth to make them look more uniform, giving you a more natural looking smile. 

If you’re considering getting dental veneers, you may have some questions about them. Are they healthy? How invasive is the procedure? Here’s what you need to know to make an informed decision for yourself. 

What Are Veneers? 

Veneers are thin porcelain shells that are shaped like teeth, but flat. They attach to the front side of your teeth and wrap slightly around the sides. A thin layer of enamel must be removed from the teeth before the veneers are attached. This makes room for the veneers and provides a rough surface for better attachment. 

Are Dental Veneers Healthy? 

Dental veneers are a healthy way to improve the appearance of your teeth. Your dentist will evaluate the health of your teeth first to ensure that they are ready for veneers. If any restorative procedures are needed they will be done first before the placement of veneers. Dentists do not recommend veneers for patients who are not ideal candidates from a dental and oral health standpoint. 

Are Dental Veneers Minimally Invasive? 

Veneers are considered minimally invasive because they only attach to the front side of the teeth. The teeth only need to be slightly altered in order to receive veneers. In some cases local anesthesia may be used in the procedure, but only when necessary. It is often possible to prepare the teeth and attach the veneers without any anesthesia. 

Are There Any Risks With Veneers? 

Veneers have minimal risks and side effects, such as:

• Increase risk of dental injury. Due to the removal of a thin layer of enamel, teeth that are fitted with veneers are at a slightly higher risk of injury that may affect the dental pulp, the soft tissue inside the tooth. 

• Tenderness of the teeth. It is common to feel some tenderness in the teeth that received veneers for a few days after the procedure. 

• Gum irritation. It is also common for the gum tissue to be irritated around the teeth that received veneers. It can take a few days for your mouth to get used to your veneers and recover from the procedure. 

Are Veneers Right For Me? 

When it comes to deciding whether or not veneers are the right cosmetic option for you, consider your goals. If you want to improve your smile quickly without orthodontic treatment, veneers are often a good solution. Veneers can conceal severe stains that don’t respond to teeth whitening treatments. They can also cover chips and make the teeth seem straight and even. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

How long do veneers last?

Veneers may last anywhere from 10 to 20 years. The key to helping your veneers last is good care and maintenance. You’ll need to brush your veneers and floss between them just as you would your natural teeth. Regular dental visits are also important for upkeep of your veneers and the teeth under them. 

Are veneers permanent?

Veneers are fixed to your teeth and only your dentist can remove them. Once you have veneers, your teeth can’t remain uncovered, as the enamel has been reduced. If your first set of veneers wear out, you’ll need to replace them with new veneers. 

Improve Your Confidence With Veneers

If you want a smile you can feel confident about, veneers may be the right treatment option for you. Skoulas DDS provides porcelain veneers for eligible patients after a consultation and evaluation. We look forward to helping you transform your smile and feel better about your appearance. 

Call 415-757-0110 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.