Am I a Good Candidate for Veneers?

Ever looked at your favorite movie star or singer and thought to yourself:

"Wow, I wish I had perfect teeth like that!" 

Well, that perfect smile is often the result of dental veneers. 

Veneers are thin porcelain or composite resin shells that are bonded to the surface of the teeth to change their appearance. They can be used to cover various imperfections like stains or chips. 

However, veneers are not for everyone. Here's how to tell if you are a good candidate for this cosmetic procedure. 

Who Is a Good Candidate for Veneers?

Here's what to look for to determine if veneers are right for you: 

1. You Have Minor Dental Imperfections 

Most people opt for veneers primarily for cosmetic reasons. They can cover imperfections like: 

• Severely stained teeth 
• Chipped or cracked teeth 
• Uneven teeth 
• Gapped teeth 
• Slightly misaligned teeth 

The keyword here is "minor." If one tooth is slightly shorter than the others, veneers are a great solution. But, if you have a more significant misalignment, you will require braces to fix it. 

2. You Have Good Oral Health

While you don't need perfect oral health to get veneers, you do need healthy gums and teeth. The veneers will be bonded to your natural teeth and your oral health must be in good condition. If you have cavities or gum disease, you will need to treat these conditions first before getting veneers. 

3. You Have Sufficient Enamel

Part of the veneer process involves removing a bit of enamel from the tooth. That's why it's paramount that you have enough enamel for this cosmetic treatment to be effective. If you suffer from enamel erosion, for example, you may need to consider other options like dental crowns. 

4. You Have Good Oral Care

Veneers require the same dental care just like your natural teeth. Although they are made of synthetic materials, the tooth underneath the veneers can still be exposed to cavity-producing bacteria. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are imperative if you want to enjoy your veneers for years to come. 

5. No Damaging Habits 

Smoking, using your teeth as tools, chewing on pen caps, or biting your nails are habits that can damage your veneers. The same goes for teeth grinding (bruxism.) If you know that you grind your teeth at night, talk to your dentist about a custom-made night guard. 

6. You Have Realistic Expectations

While veneers can dramatically improve your teeth's appearance, you need to understand their limitations too. Have an honest conversation with your dentist, tell them about your expectations, and find out what veneers can actually do for you. 

7. You Can Cover the Costs 

Veneers can be a significant investment, especially since they aren't covered by insurance. Veneers can cost up to several hundred dollars per tooth and you will have to pay out of pocket. Make sure you can afford this investment in your smile. 

Interested in Veneers in Reno, NV? 

Get in touch with Blue Water Dental Care, schedule an appointment, and let's find out if veneers are right for you. 

You can contact us online or call our office at (775) 329-8622.