Porcelain Veneers: Answering Your Questions

It can be embarrassing to go into your dentist with an endless list of questions. While no one should ever feel hesitant to ask questions until they are satisfied, it is only human nature to start getting self conscious after a few queries. Getting porcelain veneers is a major step, and you should be fully aware of what you're getting into before you have it done. This means doing some preliminary research, talking to others who have had it done, and asking your dentist as many questions as you want. As a way to get you started, here are some frequently asked questions.

How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?

They will last a very long time, provided they were put in correctly and you take care of them well. Most systems are designed to last for 10 years, and even that number can be improved upon to some degree with excellent care and technique. Of course, dental techniques and adhesives are improving all the time, so today's 10 year estimate could seem like a drop in the bucket compared with what might be around the corner.

Will Porcelain Veneers Fall Off?

In the fledgling days of this application, it wasn't unusual for dentists to deal with complaints from people of their veneers chipping, breaking, falling off, and a number of other problems. The problems were so numerous that the procedure actually started to get something of a bad reputation. However, that was yesterday. Today's systems should not fall off as long as you go to a competent dentist who knows how to implement them.

Are There Drawbacks to Porcelain Veneers?

You'll have to search far and wide to find any medical procedure that doesn't have at least one drawback. In fact, it's probably safe to say that such a procedure doesn't exist. Having made that disclaimer, there are some concerns you should be aware of before you make your decision. If the system isn't applied correctly, it could leave a small bit of your original teeth open to decay. This is why it is so important to find a good dentist with an impeccable reputation. Sloppy work has no place in dentistry.

Though there are things to consider, the fact remains that there are few better solutions for a dramatic change in the way your teeth look than porcelain veneers. Put on by a competent cosmetic dentist, they could be the solution you've been looking for to brighten your teeth and bring out that smile again.