Debunking Myths About Veneers

Skyview Dental team

Are you considering dental veneers, but are hesitant because of the myths you have heard about this cosmetic dental procedure? Hearing the truth about these five myths are sure to make you smile.

Dental veneers in Charlotte are among the best ways to improve the cosmetic appeal of your smile. Your dentist adheres these wafer-thin veneers to the front surfaces of your teeth. Made from porcelain or composite resin, dental veneers instantly improve the aesthetic appearance of your teeth. 

Cosmetic Dentist in Charlotte Debunks 5 Myths about Dental Veneers

Our dentists in Charlotte provide dental veneers to people just like you, who are curious about dental veneers but are concerned about the myths they have heard. Many of these myths developed because dental veneers have been around so long. 

You’ll be glad to know that we love to share accurate information about composite veneers and porcelain dental veneers. Here are five of the most common myths you may hear about dental veneers. 

Dental veneers are just for cosmetic purposes

It is true that dental veneers can address a wide variety of cosmetic issues, such as:

  • Stained teeth
  • Discolored teeth
  • Cracks
  • Crooked teeth
  • Gaps between teeth

Many people get veneers to resolve one or more of these aesthetic issues, so it is understandable that some might think that dental veneers are only for cosmetic purposes. However, dental veneers can benefit the function of your mouth and even improve your overall health in some cases. More specifically, dental veneers can:

  • Protect and reinforce damaged or weakened teeth
  • Correct misaligned teeth
  • Improve your bite, which is how well your teeth come together when you bite down
  • Reduce tooth sensitivity caused by erosion of your natural tooth enamel

Depending on your specific situation, you may benefit from dental veneers for both cosmetic and functional reasons.

Dental veneers are only for the rich and famous

If you think that only rich, famous people get veneers, it’s not your fault – celebrities have been using dental veneers to improve the aesthetic appeal of their smiles for decades. In fact, Shirley Temple was one of the first to hide her missing teeth with snap-on veneers way back in the 1930s. Actors, models, singers, news broadcasters, and others have used dental veneers to cover up discolored, misshapen, slightly crooked, or otherwise imperfect teeth since the early days of movies and television ever since. Celebrities, such as Tom Cruise, Miley Cyrus, Hillary Duff, Victoria Beckham, and Zac Efron all benefit from dental veneers.

You might be pleasantly surprised to learn that millions of everyday people have dental veneers. In fact, dental veneers are one of the most common cosmetic dentistry treatments performed today. That’s because everyday Americans know that having an attractive smile is important for professional success and personal satisfaction. 

And – dental veneers are not necessarily for the wealthy. Depending on the type of material you choose, dental veneers cost $800 to $2500 per tooth, according to GoodRx. These veneers keep your teeth looking great for 5 to 10 years, saving you money in the teeth whitening, teeth straightening treatments, or dental crowns that you would spend during that same time. 

Veneer teeth look fake

This myth probably began in the early days of dental veneers, which were a bit too large, square, and white compared with natural teeth. Fortunately, dental veneer technology has come a long way since those early days. Today’s dental veneers are made from natural-looking materials, and are hand-crafted by your dentist for a personalized fit. 

In fact, many of the people you work with or see every day have dental veneers and you may not realize it. 

Dental veneers stain

The natural layer of enamel that covers your teeth is porous, which means stain-causing foods and beverages can seep deeply into your enamel to cause stains. Dental veneers, by comparison, are made from stain-resistant materials. While consuming coffee and other strong staining agents over a long time can discolor your dental veneers, your dental veneers will stay whiter and brighter much longer than your natural teeth. 

Some people may mistake receding gums for stains. Gums can recede, or pull back, to show more of the tooth. Exposing this part of the tooth can make the natural tooth enamel vulnerable to stains from food and drinks while the dental veneer remains white. 

Dental veneers require a lot of maintenance

Taking care of your dental veneers is easier than you might think. Simply brush with a soft toothbrush and floss as usual, and your veneers will look great for years. As with your natural teeth, avoid chewing on objects or especially hard foods. Your dentist may recommend using special toothpaste to provide maximum protection against stains and discoloration.

Of course, you’ll want to avoid teeth-staining food and drinks, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and dark vegetables and fruits. While porcelain veneers do a much better job of resisting stains than does your natural enamel, long-term consumption of stain-causing foods and drinks can eventually discolor your veneers. 

If you are considering dental veneers but are worried about the myths you have heard, consult with Skyview Dentistry. Our Charlotte dentists blend art and science to create the perfect dental veneers for each patient who chooses them. Make an appointment for veneers in Charlotte today and enjoy a more appealing smile tomorrow.

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