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A veneer is a permanent change used to correct tooth imperfections, such as stained or chipped teeth.
Veneers are thin porcelain or composite resin coverings that are bonded to the front surface of a tooth using dental cement. Veneers don’t change the position of your teeth, but they do camouflage minor orthodontic problems once they’re applied. Your natural teeth may still be gapped or crooked, but nobody will know aside from you and your dentist. If tooth whitening isn’t sufficient, veneers may be a great option. Veneers are mostly stain-resistant, so you won’t have to worry about discoloration or needing to have your veneers whitened.
Veneers also replace damaged enamel. Enamel is strong but not indestructible. Your enamel may still be worn down from overzealous tooth brushing or eaten away by highly acidic foods and drinks. The stomach acid associated with acid reflux disease can also damage your enamel. Damaged enamel can become a cause for concern because lost enamel doesn’t grow back. Fortunately, you can replace it. Veneers are an excellent treatment for teeth with enamel abrasion or enamel erosion.
However, veneers are an irreversible procedure. Your dentist may need to permanently change the structure of your natural teeth to place them properly. It’s permanent because you can not restore the enamel shaved down before placement. Often, orthodontic treatment or whitening may be a better option. Many veneers will also eventually need to be replaced. The average lifespan for porcelain veneers is ~10-12 years, but they can last 15-20+ with good oral care.
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