It seems cosmetic dentistry has a solution to just about every dental problem. One of those solutions is dental veneers, which fix a myriad of cosmetic dental problems. If you are considering porcelain veneers to fix your smile, check out these facts you must know before you take a seat in the dentist's chair.

They Can Give You a Straight, Full Smile

While they don't physically move teeth like braces, porcelain veneers give the appearance of a straight smile. If you have minor crooked or gapped teeth, the dentist can shape your teeth and position the veneers so they are flush with each other to look straight. On top of that, if you have chips in your teeth, short teeth, pointy teeth or your teeth are just not shaped to your liking, dental veneers can give you the look of square, full teeth. Veneers are not a good solution for severely crooked/gapped teeth, but they can fixed severely misshapen teeth.

Inorganic Stains Are Hidden with Veneers

In-office teeth whitening is a favorite cosmetic procedure to eliminate stains on teeth, but this treatment cannot correct inorganic stains or stains caused by trauma. Also, if you have small cracks in your enamel, the stains my reach the dentin, making them harder to whiten, or they may require whitening treatments more often. Veneers are a fast, effective way to whiten your teeth even when whitening treatments cannot help. Plus, the porcelain used to craft the veneers is extremely stain resistant, so they'll stay whiter longer.

The Procedure and Recovery Time Is Fast

Getting porcelain veneers is a quick procedure. It usually requires two appointments set one or two weeks apart. So in less than a month, you have a beautiful, perfect smile. Because getting veneers is not extremely invasive, the recovery time is also fast. After your treatment, some minor discomfort is common, but you can return to your regular routine right away. There is no need to stick to a soft food diet after the procedure because immediately after they are placed, the veneers are bonded and ready to bite.  

Veneers Require Alternations to Your Teeth

Veneers sit on top of your teeth, and in order to fit comfortably, some of your tooth enamel must be removed. The amount depends on the condition of your teeth and your desired results. The treatment, however, doesn't require removing as much enamel as if you got a porcelain crown, so there is less risk to causing damage to the pulp. Yet, the process is still irreversible. Without that protective layer of enamel, you will always need a veneer to protect the tooth. Even with the veneers in place, your teeth may develop sensitivity to hot and cold.

Weak Teeth Are Not Appropriate for Veneers

Veneers can add some strength to teeth, but they should not be considered for extremely weak or damaged teeth, such as teeth with lots of decay, a fracture or large dental fillings. Because dental veneers don't cover the entire tooth, they don't strengthen these weak teeth enough, and the procedure may actually weaken them further. For weak and damaged teeth, porcelain crowns are a better option to add support and strength.

They Irritate Your Gums

Gum tissue tolerates porcelain well, but it is still a foreign object. Although it's not as drastic as with other substances, your gums may recede when exposed to the porcelain for long periods of time. This recession creates pockets where bacteria and plaque can hide. It also exposes your roots, which aren't protected by enamel or the veneer. If you do get veneers, make sure to keep your gum line impeccably clean.

Veneers are definitely one of the best cosmetic procedures available, but as with any irreversible procedure, you must make sure you are informed before you make the final decision. For more information about dental veneers, contact a local cosmetic dentist today.