A Teenager's Guide to Braces

If you are unhappy with the appearance of your teeth, veneers may be the solution you are looking for. Veneers are thin shells made up of porcelain or composite that are affixed to the teeth. Veneers can change the color, size, and even shape of your teeth. They are a quick way to drastically change your smile and are a great option if you have stained or chipped teeth. Veneers can even close small gaps and even give slightly crooked teeth the appearance of being straight. If you are considering veneers, here are three things to keep in mind.

It's An Irreversible Procedure

The first thing that you should keep in mind when it comes to veneers is that it is an irreversible procedure. In order for the veneers to be put into place some of the enamel must be removed. On average you can expect to lose around 1/2 millimeter of enamel on each tooth getting a veneer. While this may not seem like a lot, it is a major change to your teeth and irreversible. It's important to consider veneers carefully before getting them since they lead to such a major change in your natural teeth.

Lifespan

Another thing to consider is that veneers don't last forever. In terms of dental procedures, veneers are long lasting. However, there is a good chance that you will need them replaced at some point in the future, especially if you are young. With proper care, the average lifespan of veneers is between 10 and 15 years. After that amount of time you may need to have your veneers replaced. It's also important to note that veneers can chip and crack just like natural teeth. Avoiding hard foods and ice is key when it comes to keeping your veneers in good shape.

Cost

Cost is another factor to take into consideration when it come to veneers. While veneers can drastically change your smile's appearance, they are expensive. On average veneers range in price from $500 to $1,100 per tooth. Having multiple veneers put into place can easily cost thousands of dollars. For example, putting veneers on your four upper teeth ranges in price from $2,000 to $4,500 on average. While it can be expensive, having veneers put into place can lead to a major improvement in the appearance of your teeth. 

If you are looking to change your smile, veneers may be the right option for you. However, it's important to consider a few things. Veneers require irreversible changes to your natural teeth and may require replacement in the future. They can also be expensive. However, for many the change in the appearance of their smile is worth the cost.  Contact a dental office, like Advanced Family Dental Care LLC, for more help.