Veneers are an extremely popular procedure done to restore someone’s smile and give them the perfect teeth they have always dreamed of!

However, it’s important to understand what this procedure truly involves so that you can make the right decision for your dental health. Veneers can be a bit of a financial investment, so many patients wonder if this investment will pay off in the long run.

So, are veneers permanent? The short answer is yes, although it is a bit more nuanced than that.

Veneers Are Considered a Permanent Procedure

To get veneers, the dentist will have to shave a bit of the tooth’s natural surface to create a rough texture. This sets the perfect stage for the veneers to bind to your teeth, so you can talk and chew without worrying they will fall out.

Veneers are very thin, so you don’t need to shave a lot of the natural enamel. Some versions like Lumineers are even thinner and are often called no-prep veneers because they need little or no enamel shaving.

But, enamel does not grow back, so if you do need to go through this prepping stage, the procedure is permanent. If you take out your veneers, you will likely need to get a new pair or have some other dental procedure to restore the strength of your teeth.

Veneers Can Be Damaged

The prosthetic itself is not permanent, as it can be damaged due to bad oral hygiene or even just regular wear and tear. Here are some tips on how to maintain your veneers and extend their lifespan:

• Keep good oral hygiene habits like brushing at least twice a day
• Avoiding biting on very hard foods or objects
• Reduce your consumption of staining foods
• Avoid tooth grinding or clenching your teeth
• Quit smoking
• See the dentist regularly

Though veneers are strong, they are far from indestructible. Poor oral care can, unfortunately, increase the risk of your veneers staining, chipping, or even breaking, in which case you will need to get them replaced.

The good news is that with the right care, you can enjoy your upgraded smile for decades!

Are Veneers Right for You?

Veneers are an ideal choice if you have generally healthy teeth and need to address a few cosmetic or alignment issues:

• Badly stained or discolored teeth
• Misshapen teeth
• Tooth gaps
• Irregularly sized teeth
• Tooth chips or cracks
• Reduce a gummy smile, etc.

But, the only way to know for sure if veneers are right for you is to consult with a Farragut cosmetic dentist.

Dr. Luis and Dr. Tori Mariusso can analyze your current oral health and assess your needs in order to recommend the best course of action for your specific case, which can help address both your health and aesthetics concerns.

If you’re interested in veneers, book a consultation at Confident Smiles & Implants today.