We all aim to have a white, beautiful smile, but not all of us are lucky enough to have it naturally. Porcelain veneers provide us with an opportunity to make changes to our smiles without having to go through costly dental procedures. However, there’s a lot of misunderstanding surrounding the subject of porcelain veneers. This article will explore some of the most common myths about porcelain veneers and clear them up with expert advice from Dr. Mingus.
Myth #1: Porcelain Veneers are Extremely Expensive
The first myth we’ll tackle in this article is that porcelain veneers are extremely expensive. While they can be costly, it’s important to remember that porcelain veneers also come with unique benefits that can make the investment worthwhile. One of the reasons that veneers can be so expensive is because your dentist will need to create a custom mold of your teeth in order to create the perfect-fitting veneer.
Dr. Mingus explains, “The main reason for the high cost of veneers is the time and skill needed to create the perfect veneer for each patient. Porcelain veneers are usually made by hand, and this can be a labor-intensive and time-consuming process. Additionally, a veneer should be carefully customized to fit the natural alignment of a person’s teeth, so that it doesn’t look unnatural once it’s in place. Finally, many dental insurance plans do not cover the cost of veneers, so patients will need to pay for the cost of veneers out of pocket. That being said, many dental practices can work with their patients to find a payment plan that makes the cost of veneers more manageable.”
Myth #2: Porcelain Veneers are Brittle and Easily Breakable
One common misconception about porcelain veneers is that they’re brittle and easily breakable. One of the major benefits of porcelain veneers is that they’re incredibly durable and can last up to 20 years if properly cared for. Veneers are made of a type of porcelain that’s stronger and more durable than natural teeth. The thin shells of porcelain that make up dental veneers can easily withstand the everyday wear and tear of speaking, eating, and drinking, and their design allows them to be easily cleaned with regular brushing.
Myth #3: Porcelain Veneers Are Very Noticeable and Unnatural
Another commonly-held myth about porcelain veneers is that they’re very noticeable and look artificial. In actuality, the design of porcelain veneers, when properly customized and fitted to the natural contours of the patient’s teeth, can appear very natural. When properly fitted and created by an experienced dentist, porcelain veneers will look just like natural teeth and many patients won’t even notice them. Dr. Mingus explains, “Many patients are surprised at how realistic veneers look once they’re in place, and most are able to regain the confidence that comes with having a beautiful smile.”
Myth #4: Porcelain Veneers Require a Lot of Maintenance
One of the most common concerns among patients considering porcelain veneers is that they’ll require a lot of maintenance. Porcelain veneers, fortunately, require the same amount of care as natural teeth. Porcelain veneers can be easily cleaned with regular brushing and flossing, and they don’t require any special maintenance or cleaning products. Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings are also essential for keeping veneers looking their best, but these are things that every patient should be doing anyways. Veneers are incredibly durable, and many patients find that they require even less maintenance than their natural teeth.
Myth #5: The Process of Having Porcelain Veneers Installed Is Painful and Time-Consuming
One of the most common myths surrounding the installation process of veneers is that it’s painful and time-consuming. The truth is that having veneers installed is a very straightforward process. After making a mold of the patient’s teeth, the dentist will need to carefully shape and file the veneer in order to make sure it fits perfectly. Once the veneer is finished, it’s bonded to the patient’s tooth using a special type of dental cement. This process can usually be completed in a single dental visit, and most patients find that the discomfort is minimal and the results are well worth it.
Taking the Scary Out of Getting Porcelain Veneers with Expert Advice from Dr. Mingus
Hopefully this article has taken the scare out of some common myths about porcelain veneers and shown you just how much potential they have to improve your smile. By scheduling a consult with a dentist, such as Dr. Mingus, you can receive expert guidance and care as you embark on this life-changing process. Whether you’re looking to correct discoloration, gaps, or crooked teeth, porcelain veneers could be ke