Your smile is one of the first things people notice when meeting you for the first time. If you are not happy with the way your teeth look, you may have heard of dental veneers. Veneers are made of thin sheets of porcelain that are laid over the teeth to alter their shape, size, length or color. There are several things to consider when trying to determine if you are a good candidate for dental veneers.
- Condition of Natural Teeth. If your natural teeth show signs of decay or gum disease, those problems must be dealt with before veneers will be considered. Veneers are a cosmetic procedure that does not cure underlying disease or decay.
- No Going Back. There are two different options, no prep or prepped. No-prep veneers don’t require any modification to the natural teeth and can be removed at a later date. Prepped veneers are done by shaving away a small amount of enamel so the veneers can fit over the natural teeth and once it is done, there is no going back.
- It’s an Investment. Custom veneers take time and effort to create and trying to get a discount on a procedure as important as this is probably not the best idea. Cheap veneers don’t look great and won’t last, so know up front that quality veneers are an investment.
- Can’t Fix Severely Crooked Teeth. If you are thinking that veneers are the answer to disguise your very crooked teeth, you are mistaken. Veneers can’t re-orient severely crooked teeth — that is the job of an orthodontist.
- Good Hygiene. Don’t think you can skip cleaning your teeth. Good oral hygiene is vital for anyone and proper brushing and flossing remains even when veneers have been placed. Regular dental checkups are also important.
If you think you are a good candidate for veneers and would like more information, please give us a call at the office of Paul D. Nifong, Jr., DDS today!