8 Myths About Porcelain Veneers
Common Misconceptions About Porcelain Veneers
Is misinformation about porcelain veneers stopping you from getting a brighter, more even smile? Here are eight of the most common myths surrounding porcelain veneers, complete with illuminating facts on this transformative cosmetic dentistry treatment.
Myth #1: Veneers are only for the vain.
When it comes to a person’s most memorable facial feature, their smile often takes the lead. Because our smiles are so central to our social interactions, how you feel about your smile can have a profound impact on your social life and self-esteem. While feeling happy with your smile’s appearance can elevate your confidence and help you feel expressive and carefree, feeling dissatisfied with your smile can induce social anxiety, hinder your self-expression, and stand in the way of professional and social opportunities.
Fact
The effects of feeling unhappy with your smile run more than skin deep. Because they can correct a wide range of cosmetic concerns, porcelain veneers can be a life-changing dental treatment that can improve your social confidence and sense of well-being.
Myth #2: Veneers will make my teeth look fake.
If the idea of porcelain veneers has you thinking about the Friends episode “The One with Ross’ Teeth,” turn on your blacklight and get ready for brighter news. While veneers can be used to brighten and lighten your smile, bleach-white is not your only option (and is not particularly recommended). Veneers are available in over a dozen tooth-colored shades, allowing you to choose a natural-looking veneer color that compliments your overall appearance, skin tone, and age.
Fact
Porcelain veneers come in a variety of natural-looking shades (and won’t make your teeth glow under a blacklight!). And because they are custom-made to fit precisely on your individual teeth, porcelain veneers are completely indistinguishable from your natural teeth.
Myth #3: Veneers only correct the top front teeth.
Though we regret to inform you that your top front teeth have been dubbed “the social six,” we are delighted to let you know that porcelain veneers can address cosmetic concerns beyond these six teeth. For most people, smiling and talking reveals at least 14 teeth (eight upper teeth and six lower teeth), all of which can be corrected with porcelain veneers.
Fact
Porcelain veneers can be used to correct imperfections on the front surface of both your upper and lower arch of teeth.
Myth #4: Veneers are invasive.
Dental veneers are wafer-thin ceramic shells that are individualized to fit your teeth. To make space for these custom ceramic shells, a small amount of surface enamel will be sanded down (usually half to one millimeter). In addition to creating a stronger bond between your tooth and the veneers, this step also prevents veneers from looking bulky or fake, leaving you with a smile that is equally healthy and radiant.
Fact
While it’s true that some surface enamel will be lightly buffed, your overall tooth structure will be completely preserved.
Myth #5: Veneers will weaken my teeth.
Because many believe veneer treatment is invasive (see myth #4), the fear of weaker teeth often follows. Interestingly enough, the opposite is often the case, especially when someone already has weak or worn down tooth enamel. The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry has found that veneers are a viable option for replacing weak or damaged enamel on the front surface of your teeth.
Fact
With good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, porcelain veneers can provide added strength and protection to your teeth.
Myth #6: Veneer treatment is lengthy.
No matter how much you may like your dentist, rearranging your schedule for an onslaught of dental visits is inconvenient and undesirable. But since veneer treatments are noninvasive, the process is usually completed in just a few weeks.
Fact
You can transform your smile in as few as three clinical visits: consultation, preparation, and installation.
Myth #7: Veneers break and stain easily.
Provided you abandon any habit of chewing your nails, ice, and pens and wear a nightguard if you grind or clench your teeth, your durable porcelain veneers will stand the test of time. And since porcelain veneers are non-porous, they won’t change color or shade. To maintain your smile’s radiance and prevent any discoloration, be sure to visit your dentist twice a year and brush and floss daily.
Fact
When you thoroughly care for your mouth and teeth, your porcelain veneers will provide you with a strong, radiant smile for many years.
Myth #8: My dentist will judge me for wanting to improve my smile’s appearance.
What dentist wouldn’t want their patients to feel amazing about their teeth? Though you may feel a little shy or vulnerable when being honest with your dentist about your smile goals, the truth is your dentist will never judge you for wanting to transform your smile’s appearance. In the end, your dentist also has teeth that she or he wants to be healthy and look great!
Fact
Your dentist knows how our smile can influence our mental health, social life, and self-esteem. Your dentist genuinely wants to help you achieve a smile you love.
Porcelain veneers are one of the most versatile and valued cosmetic dental treatments to correct chips, stains, discoloration, unevenness, and “gummy smiles.” Contact our office to schedule a consultation, share your smile goals, and learn how veneers can help you completely transform your smile’s appearance.
