By Maylands Dental Centre 
Do you want to achieve a beautiful smile with dental veneers but are unsure if you are a good candidate for the procedure?
Many people think they may be eligible because they have seen celebrities sporting white and even teeth. However, there is more to dental veneers than meets the eye. Depending on your specific cosmetic dental needs and state of oral health, getting veneers may or may not be the right choice for you.
In this blog post, we explore what it takes to qualify as good dental veneer candidates. We will provide you with insight into the process and set realistic expectations along the way. Join us now as we delve right in!
Summary of The Content
- Dental veneers are a cosmetic dental treatment that can help with various dental issues, including discoloured, chipped, or misshapen teeth.
- Not everyone is a good candidate for veneers, and a consultation with a dentist is necessary to evaluate individual suitability.
- Factors to consider when thinking of getting dental veneers include overall dental health, commitment to oral hygiene practices, realistic expectations, awareness of limitations, maintenance, lifespan, cost, and risks.
- Dental veneers are not recommended for people with weak natural tooth enamel, gum disease, periodontal disease, severe cavities or gum disease, autoimmune disorders that cause dry mouth, bruxism, and those who smoke.
- While veneers can last for many years, they may require replacement after a decade or so.
- Before getting veneers, your dentist will check the condition of your teeth and gum tissue to check if you are a suitable candidate.
What are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are thin coverings placed over the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. These thin, custom-made shells are made from materials such as porcelain or composite resin, which are tooth-coloured materials that can match the natural shade of your teeth.
There are two main dental veneer options: porcelain and composite. Other dental veneer options include Lumineers, snap-on veneers, prepless veneers, and more.
- Porcelain veneers:
These are wafer-thin ceramic shells that are highly durable and resistant to stains. They are usually more expensive than composite veneers but can last up to 15 years with proper care. - Composite resin veneers:
These are made from a tooth-coloured composite filling material directly applied to the teeth. They are less expensive than porcelain veneers but may not last as long and may require more maintenance.
Dental veneers have many advantages, including:
- Improved appearance:
Veneers can address various cosmetic issues such as discolouration, chips, gaps, and misaligned teeth, resulting in an improved smile. - Long-lasting:
Porcelain veneers can last up to 15 years with proper care. - Stain-resistant:
Porcelain veneers are highly resistant to staining from food, drinks, or smoking.
There are also some disadvantages to consider, such as:
- Cost:
Veneers can be expensive, especially porcelain veneers. - Irreversibility:
Removing a thin layer of tooth enamel is required to place veneers, which cannot be undone once completed. - Potential for damage:
Veneers can crack or chip if exposed to excessive force. In such cases, porcelain veneers cannot be repaired but must be replaced.
Before deciding, talk to your dentist about which among the many dental veneer options is suited for you.
Who is a Good Candidate for Dental Veneers?
Not everyone is a good candidate for dental veneers, and a consultation with a dentist is necessary to evaluate individual suitability. Generally, dental veneer candidates should meet the following criteria:
Healthy Teeth and Gums
Before the dentist can consider placing veneers, they must first check that the patient’s teeth and gums are healthy. Any underlying dental issues, such as gum disease or cavities, must be addressed before veneers can be placed. Additionally, a patient who grinds their teeth or has a bad bite may not be an ideal candidate for veneers.
Good Physical Health
Patients with certain health conditions may not be good candidates for veneers. For example, patients with impaired immune systems or uncontrolled diabetes may not be appropriate candidates. Additionally, those with chronic diseases requiring rigorous medical treatment might be unable to properly care for dental veneers afterward.
Commitment to Oral Hygiene Practices
A patient considering veneers must be committed to maintaining excellent oral hygiene habits. Veneers can be stained if not cared for properly, compromising their appearance. The patient must be willing to brush and floss regularly and visit the dentist for routine cleanings and exams.
Realistic Expectations
It’s important to have realistic expectations for the outcome of dental veneers. While veneers can improve the appearance of teeth, they will not necessarily come out perfect. Veneers can address minor imperfections such as chips or gaps, but they may not be suitable for more significant dental problems.
Awareness of Limitations
Some limitations to consider include age and the condition of the teeth. Veneers are typically not recommended for children or teenagers whose teeth and jaws are still developing. Additionally, patients with severely decayed or damaged teeth may not be dental veneer candidates and may require more extensive dental work such as dental implants, bridges or crowns.
Dental veneers can provide a natural-looking and long-lasting solution for many dental cosmetic concerns. However, it’s important to consult with a qualified dentist to determine eligibility and suitability.