Questions to Ask Before Getting Porcelain Veneers

Before flashing those pearly white porcelain veneers, consider asking your dentist a few questions about the procedure. Porcelain veneers are made up of a thin shell of porcelain that covers the tooth and last from five to 10 years. Once veneers bond to the teeth they are impossible to reverse because a dentist files the enamel of the original tooth away to adhere the porcelain caps. Find out the specifics of porcelain veneers before attempting to have this procedure done.

Can Veneers Fix Problems?

• According to the article "Dental Health and Veneers" on WebMD, veneers can correct discolored teeth, enhance worn or broken teeth and assist in straightening crooked teeth. A dentist may recommend porcelain veneers if teeth have large gaps or have a weak structure.

What are the Risks with Veneers?

• Veneers permanently bond to your teeth, but occasionally they can pop or fall off the tooth. While this may not cause initial pain, chewing food on the exposed tooth can hurt. Porcelain veneers can wear down over time and may need replacing.

How Much Do Veneers Cost?

• Porcelain veneers get expensive and the price ranges depending on the area you live and the dentist you work with. Be sure to get an accurate estimate for the entire procedure. As of 2010, veneers can cost anywhere between $500 to $2,500, depending on the quality of the porcelain and the price of the labor. The amount of dental visits and the type of equipment used can also play a large factor in the price of veneers.

How Do I Take Care of Veneers?

• Care for porcelain veneers the way you care for regular teeth; brush regularly, floss daily and use mouthwash to get rid of germs and fight cavities. Teeth with veneers are still susceptible to cavities and gum disease if they are not cared for properly.

Does it Hurt?

• After bonding the porcelain to veneers, teeth may have a slight sensitivity to hot and cold items. The dentist takes precautions against pain by providing local anesthetics when applying veneers. Some dentists offer laughing gas or a general anesthetic before going through with the procedure.

What are the Benefits of Veneers?

• Porcelain veneers resist stains and decay. They provide a way to protect weak teeth and teeth suffering from misalignment. Choose the color of your veneers to give yourself a whiter smile. Dentists can shape veneers to close gaps and make eating and drinking easier.