Considering Veneers? Here Are 10 Questions You Must Ask

If you dislike the appearance of your smile, veneers can be one of the simplest and most noticeable solutions. Asymmetrical teeth, dental stains, or smaller-than-average teeth—all of these issues can be solved by getting veneers with cosmetic dentistry in Montgomery, AL, offering you a new and refreshed look.  

However, their placement can be invasive—and, in some cases, irreversible, too, which is why it is key to consider it in detail. To help you, here are 10 questions you should ask your cosmetic dentist before getting veneers!

10 Must-Ask Questions Before Getting Veneers  

1. How Do Veneers Work?

Veneers are thin shells placed on the front of teeth to cover imperfections and achieve a cohesive, aesthetic look.

They can be applied to cosmetic issues such as:

• Broken or cracked teeth

• Chipped teeth

• Discolored teeth

• Smaller-than-normal teeth

They are usually composed of porcelain or composite resin and bonded to a tooth's front surface with dental cement.

2. How Long Does It Take to Get Dental Veneers?

Before undergoing any type of dental treatment, asking about the timeline is key to knowing what to expect. The process of getting dental veneers can take two or three appointments, during which we will:

• We’ll start with an initial consultation to assess the state of your smile, review your medical history, and inquire about your aesthetic goals and expectations. Measurements and a facial structure analysis will also be part of this to guarantee that your veneers fit and look their best.

• The second appointment will be the longer preparation appointment. The teeth are slightly reduced to get the proper fit for your veneers, sometimes without any tooth structure being removed. After that, a dental lab creates the veneers according to your fit, color, and appearance specifications.

• The last appointment is for the final veneer fitting. During this visit, the porcelain will be bonded to your tooth structure to create veneers that will be chemically retained.

3. Does it Hurt to Get Dental Veneers?

No, veneer placement shouldn’t cause pain. Most patients say this minimally invasive procedure causes them little to no discomfort. Actually, the only preparation required for your veneers is removing a thin layer of tooth enamel, so any discomfort you feel during this process will be minimal.

Some patients experience slight dental sensitivity afterward, though.

4. Who’s a Good Candidate for Dental Veneers?

You can get veneers without worries if you have good oral health. This implies:

• You have no tooth decay

• You are free of gum disease

• You have a lot of spaces between your teeth  

• You have plenty of tooth enamel in place

• Your teeth have minor cosmetic issues you wish to address

• You are committed to maintaining good oral hygiene

Whether veneers will meet your aesthetic needs or if a different treatment might be more appropriate, we will be more than happy to discuss all options with you.

5. How Long Do Dental Veneers Last?

The longevity of your veneer will vary depending on how well you take care of it, but it should last ten to twenty years. This means you will typically require a veneer replacement at some point.

Because veneer placement requires the enamel of your teeth to be shaved down, replacing it is a must if one of them breaks.

6. What Can I Eat with Dental Veneers?

You can eat almost anything you want when you have dental veneers. Once the veneers are in place, it is recommended that you use a fork and knife to cut food rather than your front teeth. For instance, cut an apple into pieces rather than biting into it. Foods you might want to stay away from after veneer placement include:

• Hard candies  

• Hard foods, like raw carrots,  

• Anything sticky, like caramel  

• Meats that are difficult to chew  

Your dentist can give you more detailed instructions when your veneers are placed.  

7. How Do I Keep My Veneers Clean?

After getting veneers, maintaining good oral hygiene is fundamental to keeping them clean and preventing tooth decay. Your dentist will explain in detail how to take good care of them, but some general recommendations include:

• Brush after every meal and floss daily

• Get regular check-ups at the dentist and routine dental cleanings

• Use a whitening toothpaste

• Limit your consumption of tooth-staining beverages, like coffee and soda

• Avoid using tobacco products or smoking

These simple steps will help you maintain your veneers' cleanliness and aesthetic appeal.

8. Are There Any Downsides to Dental Veneers?

Veneers are one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments due to their effectiveness and long-lasting results. That being said, there are some downsides to this treatment that you should be aware of.

For instance, if a veneer cracks or chips, it cannot be fixed—it must be replaced entirely. Additionally, because the placement involves shaving down your enamel, you can sometimes experience sensitivity to hot or cold beverages afterward.

Asking your dental professional to be honest about the downsides is crucial to making a continuous, well-informed decision.

9. Are There Alternatives to Dental Veneers?

It makes sense to ask about all the available options before getting veneers. Depending on what type of aesthetic issue you like to address, we may suggest alternative treatments, such as:

• Teeth whitening to remove stubborn stains.

• Dental crowns to cover smaller-than-average, misshapen teeth.

• Orthodontic treatments are necessary if you have a noticeable misalignment.

Most dentists who offer veneers also provide a range of other cosmetic solutions, so they’ll be happy to explain each procedure's pros and cons!

10. Can I See Examples of Your Previous Work?

If you decide to get dental veneers, asking your cosmetic dentist about former patients’ testimonials is a must. It will serve as an example of their artistic abilities and allow you to decide whether or not their craftsmanship style is right for you!

Get Veneers with Confidence at a Cosmetic Dentistry in Montgomery, AL

Veneer placement is irreversible, so understanding it in detail is fundamental to avoid regrets. This means asking your professional dentist all the questions you have.

Let us know if you have any doubts or fears about the veneer process! We are here to answer all your questions and help you feel secure that this is your desired treatment. Contact Parkside Dental Care today!