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Considering Veneers? 3 Things To Know

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More than one-third of American adults are unhappy with the appearance of their smile. Your smile is one of the first things that people notice, and if you do not like the way your teeth look, it can have a negative impact on your self-esteem. There are various cosmetic dental procedures that can change the appearance of your teeth and gums. One option, if you are looking for a drastic change, is having dental veneers put into place. Here are three things to know about dental veneers.

What They Can Do

The first thing that you need to know is how dental veneers can change your smile. Veneers are thin shells made either of porcelain or composite that are bonded to the outside of the teeth. Veneers can change the size, shape, and color of the teeth they are bonded to. They are often used to cover deep staining, disguise crookedness, and make smaller teeth look larger. Veneers are also often used to cover teeth that are chipped or cracked. While you can get one or two veneers to cover problematic teeth, it's most common to get between six and eight veneers placed on the top teeth.

How Much They Cost

When it comes to cosmetic dentistry, the cost is a factor. Since the dental work you are having done is cosmetic, your dental insurance policy will typically not cover any of the costs. Dental veneer services can be pricey, especially if you are having multiple veneers put into place. On average, veneers range in cost between $500 and $1,100 per tooth. Ultra-thin veneers are also available but cost even more than traditional veneers. Ultra-thin veneers cost on average between $700 and $1,300 per tooth.

They Change The Underlying Teeth

While veneers can produce dramatic results, they are something you should consider carefully. In order for the veneers to bond strongly to the teeth, some of the enamel must be removed. This means that the underlying teeth will be altered permanently in order to be able to put the veneers in place. Veneers also do not last forever. The average lifespan is between 7 and 14 years. Your veneers will eventually need to be replaced, another thing to consider before getting them.

Dental veneers are an excellent and effective way to improve your smile. However, there are a few things to know if you are considering veneers. First, knowing what they can do and whether or not you will see the results you want is key. Costs vary, but veneers are pricey. It's also important to know that the underlying teeth must be altered in order for the veneers to be bonded.


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