Things to know before opting for dental veneers

Teeth veneers are covers attached in front of your natural teeth to give them an enhanced appearance. They are wafer-thin shells permanently fixed to the teeth that are made of porcelain or resin-based composite. They are often used to hide chipped, broken, or discolored teeth or fill the gap between them.

Here are some factors you need to know before opting for this procedure:

• Cost
  Porcelain teeth veneers are more expensive than composite ones since they last anywhere between 15 and 20 years. This type of teeth veneer is less likely to stain. According to American Dental Association, they cost anywhere between $925 and $2500 per tooth. Composite veneers cost between $250 and $1500. They have a lifespan of five to seven years but can easily stain or break if proper care is not taken. The prices of teeth veneers may vary due to certain factors like geographical location, fees of the dental surgeon, the material used, and the number of teeth being treated. Most insurance companies do not cover the cost of teeth veneers since they fall under cosmetic surgery.

• Procedure
  Teeth veneers take about two to six weeks to place. First, your dentist will diagnose and examine any oral health concerns you may have. You will get to choose your teeth color from a special shade chart. Next, your dentist will administer an anesthetic to minimize any pain, and the natural tooth will be minimally reshaped using a rotational device called a bur. For composite resin veneers, your dental surgeon will apply the shaded composite material on the tooth and harden it with a high-intensity light. In porcelain veneers, an impression of your teeth will be taken to build a mold. A temporary custom-fit will be made and tested on your teeth for any adjustments. After this, a final one will be permanently fixed to the teeth.

• Result
  Individuals who do not have success with other dental procedures like retainers, braces, or teeth whitening typically opt for veneers to fix odd, crooked, or pointed teeth. They also help cover stains and decay. Teeth veneers are helpful for individuals who wish for long-term solutions. It can be a heavy investment but worthwhile for those who want to make their smile appear better. Their aftercare is important since broken veneers cannot be repaired.