Veneers: Benefits, Types & Contraindications

Veneers are very thin shells placed over the front surface of the teeth to improve their appearance. They can make teeth look whiter, correct minor irregularities, and create a more even smile.

Ultra-thin veneers are a type of dental veneer made from materials such as feldspathic porcelain or lithium disilicate. They can be up to 0.3 mm thick and may last for more than 10 years.

Veneers can be placed on a single tooth or on several teeth across the dental arch. Before treatment, a dentist should evaluate the teeth, gums, bite, and overall oral health to determine whether veneers are appropriate.

Main benefits

The main benefits of dental veneers include:

• Correcting minor changes in tooth color

• Covering mild to moderate stains that cannot be corrected with teeth-whitening treatments, such as white spots caused by excessive fluoride exposure or antibiotic use

• Closing spaces between teeth, known as diastemas

• Improving the appearance of broken or damaged teeth

• Correcting minor misalignment or rotation of the front teeth

• Replacing older porcelain restorations

• Reshaping irregularly formed teeth while preserving as much of the natural tooth structure as possible

• Improving the shape and texture of the teeth

• Restoring the appearance of crowns and bridges

Dental veneers are placed by a dentist. Depending on the individual case, a thin layer of tooth enamel may or may not need to be removed before the veneers are applied. The procedure is usually quick and painless, so anesthesia may not be necessary.

Possible disadvantages

Possible disadvantages of dental veneers include increased tooth thickness, tartar buildup, damage caused by removing tooth enamel, and dissatisfaction with the final tooth color.

Some people may experience temporary tooth sensitivity after veneers are placed. However, pain in the teeth or gums is not expected. If pain occurs, a dentist should be consulted right away.

Dental veneer placement is generally considered safe when it is performed by a qualified dentist after a complete evaluation of the teeth, gums, oral health, and overall health.

According to the American Dental Association, tooth decay and gum disease should be treated before veneers are placed because covering unhealthy teeth may worsen existing dental problems. This helps reduce the risk of complications, such as infection.

Main types

Dental veneers vary according to the material used to make them and include:

1. Lithium disilicate

Lithium disilicate is one of the most commonly used materials for dental veneers because it is durable and provides a natural-looking appearance.

2. Translucent zirconia

Translucent zirconia closely resembles the natural appearance of teeth. It contains zirconium oxide in its layered structure, which gives the veneers a slightly translucent appearance.

3. Zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate

Adding zirconia to lithium silicate increases the veneer’s resistance to impact while also providing good cosmetic results.

4. Conventional feldspathic ceramic

Veneers made from conventional feldspathic ceramic use an older type of porcelain. Although this material can provide good cosmetic results, it has a higher risk of fracture.

5. Leucite-reinforced feldspathic glass ceramic

Dental veneers made from leucite-reinforced ceramic can closely reproduce the natural details of the teeth. They are also more resistant and may provide improved appearance and durability.

Traditional veneers vs ultra-thin veneers

Traditional dental veneers usually require the removal of a small amount of enamel before they are placed. According to the American Dental Association, veneer treatment is irreversible because the natural tooth structure is permanently altered.

Ultra-thin veneers require less tooth preparation than traditional veneers and may sometimes be placed without removing enamel. However, some enamel removal may still be necessary to ensure a proper fit and prevent the veneers from looking bulky.

Care tips

After veneers are placed, certain precautions can help prevent damage, such as:

• Brushing the teeth after waking up, after meals, and before going to bed every day.

• Using a soft-bristled toothbrush, as recommended by the dentist.

• Avoiding abrasive toothpastes and choosing fluoride toothpaste, as recommended by the dentist.

• Using an alcohol-free mouthwash after brushing.

• Flossing at least once a day before brushing and whenever necessary.

• Visiting the dentist every 6 to 12 months to evaluate the veneers and oral health and to remove plaque and tartar.

• Consulting a dentist for any tooth pain or gum problems.

• Avoiding biting the nails or chewing on the ends of pencils or pens.

• Using a custom night guard recommended by the dentist if bruxism (teeth grinding) is present, to help prevent damage to the veneers.

• Avoiding biting directly into very hard foods, such as nuts or raw carrots, and cutting them into smaller pieces before eating.

• Limiting foods that may stain or darken the teeth, such as chocolate or soy sauce.

• Limiting beverages that may stain or darken the veneers, such as black tea, coffee, red wine, or dark-colored soft drinks. Drinking water afterward may help reduce staining.

• Avoiding smoking, as cigarettes can darken or stain the veneers.

Anyone who notices a change in veneer color or a crack in a veneer should see a dentist for evaluation, repair, or replacement. Small cracks may allow bacteria to enter and contribute to cavities that can damage the underlying teeth.

Contraindications for use

Dental veneers are generally not recommended in the following situations:

• Severe discoloration or very dark tooth stains

• Poor oral hygiene habits

• Increased risk of developing cavities

• Weak or nonvital teeth that are at risk of falling out

• Dental malocclusion, which occurs when the upper and lower teeth do not meet properly

• Overlapping teeth

• Severely damaged teeth or teeth at high risk of breaking or falling out, in which case dental crowns may be recommended

• Reduced tooth enamel

• Very large spaces between the teeth, which may require orthodontic treatment before veneers are placed

• Gum disease, gum inflammation, or periodontitis

• Untreated cavities or tartar buildup

Dental veneers may also not be recommended for people with bruxism, which is the habit of grinding or clenching the teeth, or for people who frequently bite their nails or chew on pencils or pens.