Pros and Cons of Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain dental veneers are a popular aesthetic dental procedure for patients with crooked, cracked, or stained teeth, or gapped between their teeth. Porcelain veneers are thin shells that are placed on the front of the tooth. Whether you choose to have one dental veneer or several to complete a full smile makeover, the result is an improved smile and self-confidence.

The advantages of porcelain veneers are many, which is why a cosmetic dentist may recommend them as an option to correct the aesthetics of their patients’ smiles. Porcelain dental veneers are stain resistant and won’t stain as quickly or easily as other dental options. Dental veneers can be shaped to match the surrounding teeth or to match the ideal shape as determined by your cosmetic dentist. They not only look like your natural teeth, they function like them as well, providing durability for several years. They can be used alone or with several other cosmetic or restorative treatments as part of a full or partial smile makeover.

As with anything, there are several drawbacks to porcelain dental veneers. The primary obstacle many face is the cost. Porcelain veneers are expensive with a full set costing upwards of several thousand dollars. Since they are considered an elective cosmetic treatment, porcelain veneers are not covered by most insurance plans. Though porcelain veneers are durable, they do not last forever and must be replaced in about five to ten years. Adding to this is their inherent fragility, as they can become cracked or damaged, as a normal tooth would under many conditions. Finally, treatment with porcelain veneers cannot be reversed. Since much of the tooth is shaved down to accommodate the veneer, a veneer will always have to be placed on the tooth to protect it from further damage and decay. Though it may be expensive to replace the veneer, alternatives prove far more costly.

Contact Bloomington, Illinois cosmetic dentist for more information about porcelain veneers.