When it comes to cosmetic dentistry, the coverage seems to be a bit conflicted.  Is it good, or is it bad?  Is it worth getting some of these procedures or is it overly expensive?  Well, I am here today to attempt to shed some light on the answers to these questions and clear the air.

While getting something such as veneers is a very personal choice, it might be a hard decision to make without all of the facts.  So, I’ll explain what they are and how they work, as well as some potential costs you might have.  That way, you can make an educated decision!

What Are They?

When I hear the term, usually my mind goes to a celebrity or influencer who is quite well off.  Many of us know the look – the bright white, overly perfect teeth that are very clearly veneered.  It’s a turn-off for a lot of people who do want to correct certain problems on their own but don’t want such a fake look.

There are options out there that don’t look like that, thankfully.  This largely will depend on the materials that are used in yours, including the cement that bonds them to the teeth.  You can learn more about that here: https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a13051650/what-are-veneers/.  

There are two common materials that are used.  They are porcelain and resin.  The former is generally a bit more expensive, but lasts longer and is more durable.  They can also mimic the appearance of natural teeth better.  However, resin works just fine, so discuss what would be better for your needs with your dentist.

What Are the Costs?

This is what many of us worry about when it comes to getting any orthodontal procedures done.  After all, it can get quite expensive, especially for things that insurance won’t cover.  What about veneers, though?

Well, as I mentioned above, the resin variety is typically more affordable. That being said, even the porcelain ones are generally not that bad.  They are certainly a more accessible option than dental implants, which can go for thousands of dollars per tooth.

Most providers will have you schedule an initial consultation appointment, which can cost a bit of money upfront.  However, it is an integral part of the process, as it helps them to understand what you are looking to accomplish.  After all, the creation of veneers does take time.

If you’re looking for some details on current veneers prices, there are plenty of resources to check out.  Generally, you are looking at a few hundred dollars for each tooth you are having veneered.  It’s fairly reasonable compared to other options, so if you are looking to have a cosmetic dentistry procedure done, it might be something to consider.

Are They Worth It?

Many of us are insecure about our smiles, me included.  I find that often, I will end up closing my mouth for any pictures taken of me because I don’t feel great about how my teeth look.  There is a stigma surrounding off-colored teeth, which is always a result of poor oral hygiene.

This isn’t the case, though.  Sometimes, our teeth simply yellow over time, or due to parts of our diets.  Certain foods and drinks do cause it, such as coffee, even if we brush diligently.  There shouldn’t be anything to be ashamed of, but the pressure does get to me sometimes.

I think that something like veneers that look natural and aren’t too fake in appearance can be a great help in this department.  They can be adjusted to look a certain color, of course.  However, something many of us may not realize is that they can also be made to alter the shape and length of our teeth. Read here to know more about veneers.

You can read more about that process in this article, but I’ll do my best to explain it as well.  I think the main thing that you need to keep in mind about them is that they are permanent.  Your teeth have to be altered to fit them, usually involving engraving and the removal of the enamel, so it is not reversible.

That being said, it is very difficult to damage them.  While you do need to exercise caution in terms of biting down on hard items, chipping and cracking are quite rare.  This makes them a solid investment in terms of lifetime use.

In recent years, there are also new types that don’t require the grinding of natural teeth as well.  If that is something that appeals to you, I would recommend talking to your provider about it.  They should have a variety of options for you to select from.

So, while they are costly, I would say they are generally worth it if you are looking for a makeover for your smile.  It can assist with chipped teeth or discoloration and is often safer than a whitening procedure as that involves harsh bleach.

Often, if they specialize in doing this procedure, they can offer you a catalog of smiles to look at and examples of their previous work.  It’s a good idea to check these out, as you should try to select a style of veneers that suits your face and your personality.  Because they are so customizable, you have a lot of possibilities to consider!

If you’re not sure where to go for them, think about what you want from the experience.  For example, you could desire a chance to give your input into the design throughout the whole process.  There are providers who allow this and encourage your participation in the process.

For those unsure about what they are looking for, a location that prioritizes the look of your face and customizes the veneers to suit that might be a good choice for you.  Do your research on the available dentists and think about what you want from your veneers.  That will have a big influence on where you will end up going, after all, as it’s something quite personal!

Have you had cosmetic dentistry?

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