Veneers Pros and Cons: What to Weigh Before You Decide

What are the pros and cons of veneers?

Veneers can change the look of front teeth with a thin shell. The main cons are that enamel is removed, the change is hard to undo, and the veneer may need care later. The American Dental Association (ADA) says veneers can improve teeth that are chipped or broken, stained, or crooked or misshapen. They can also mask gaps.

A dental veneer covers only the front surface of a tooth. A crown covers the whole tooth. Town Center Dental lists veneers on its dental veneers page, where you can read the practice’s own description.

What does “not reversible” really mean?

It means your dentist removes a thin layer of enamel to make room for the veneer, and that enamel does not grow back. The ADA states that treatment is not reversible because tooth enamel is removed to place a veneer.

Cleveland Clinic adds that some types, called no-prep or minimal-prep veneers, remove less enamel and may be reversible. It also says no-prep veneers still need some enamel removal. Ask your dentist which type they plan and how much of the tooth they expect to reshape. That single answer shapes the whole decision.

How are porcelain and composite veneers different?

Porcelain veneers are made in a dental lab. Composite veneers are built up on the tooth in the office. The ADA says a porcelain veneer is a thin shell custom-made to fit on the front surface of your teeth. It describes a composite veneer as tooth-colored filling material bonded to the tooth.

The ADA also says composite veneers may need less enamel removed and fewer visits. Your dentist can explain which type fits your teeth and your goals. If you want a closer look at another option, read our guide to veneers vs bonding.

How long do veneers last?

Cleveland Clinic says veneers last 10 to 15 years on average with proper care. Treat that as a typical range, not a promise. Your own result depends on your bite, your habits and how well you clean your teeth.

A veneer that chips or loosens is not a lost cause. The ADA says your dentist may re-bond, repair or replace it.

Who may not be a good candidate?

Veneers may not suit you if you grind your teeth, have a deep overbite, or have untreated problems in the mouth. The ADA says your dentist must first treat any dental issues like decay or gum disease. It adds that placing veneers over unhealthy teeth may worsen existing dental problems.

Grinding is a common reason to pause. If you grind at night, ask your dentist whether a night guard makes sense to protect your teeth and any veneers. Grinding is called bruxism, and many people do not know they do it. Dentists often spot it first.

Do veneers still need daily care?

Yes. The ADA says you can still get cavities under or around a veneer. Brush with fluoride toothpaste twice a day and clean between your teeth daily. Keep your regular checkups so your dentist can look at the edges of each veneer.

What happens when veneers are placed?

The steps differ a little by type. For a porcelain veneer, the ADA lists these steps:

1. Your dentist prepares the tooth by removing a small amount of enamel from the front and sides.
2. They take an impression or a scan so a dental lab can make the veneer.
3. You may wear a temporary veneer while you wait.
4. The dentist checks the fit and shape, makes any adjustments, cleans your teeth and bonds the veneer in place.

The ADA says it may take a few days to get used to a veneer. Tell your dentist if your bite does not feel right afterward so they can correct it.

How is a veneer different from a crown?

A veneer covers the front of a tooth. A dental crown covers the whole tooth. The ADA says veneers are different from crowns because they cover only the front surface of a tooth rather than the entire tooth structure. A crown may be a better fit when a tooth is badly broken or has a large filling. Your dentist can explain which one suits each tooth.

What should I ask before I decide?

Bring these questions to your exam:

• How much enamel will be removed from each tooth?
• Which type fits my teeth: porcelain, composite or a minimal-prep type?
• Do I grind my teeth, and what would protect the veneers?
• What will I do if a veneer chips or comes loose?
• What will my plan pay, and what is my estimate in writing?

Good answers to these questions matter more than any photo. A veneer is a long-term choice, so take your time.

Will insurance pay for veneers?

Often it will not. The ADA says veneers are considered cosmetic dentistry, so your plan may not cover them unless they are deemed medically necessary. Plans differ, so check yours. Town Center Dental does not publish fees. The office gives each patient an estimate for their own plan. You can read more on the insurance and financing page.

Why see a licensed dentist for veneers?

The ADA urges people to use a licensed dentist for veneers. It warns that services from unlicensed individuals may carry risks for infection and nerve damage. A dentist can also check that your teeth are healthy enough before any enamel is removed.

Next step

If you are weighing veneers, start with an exam so your dentist can look at your teeth, your bite and your goals. Read about dental veneers at Town Center Dental, then call (636) 273-5866 or request an appointment.