Ask a Cosmetic Dentist: Are Veneers Considered Cosmetic

While veneers are technically considered cosmetic treatments, a cosmetic dentist may describe additional benefits to getting them added to the teeth. Dental veneers can both improve the look of the smile and help keep teeth healthy. These thin, customized shells cover the front of the teeth and can be customized to match the color of the existing teeth for a natural look. The main reason most people get veneers is to change the appearance of the smile, which is why they are considered cosmetic.

Cosmetic reasons to get veneers

There are a number of appearance issues veneers are able to fix.

Changing tooth color

Those with severely discolored teeth that are unresponsive to whitening treatment can add veneers to get a brighter, whiter smile. Because patients can choose the color of the veneers, it is simple to select a shade that looks both whiter and natural.

Changing tooth shape

Adding veneers can make irregularly shaped teeth appear more symmetrical. Odd curves or bumps can be fixed without having to remove excessive amounts of enamel.

Changing tooth size

Teeth that appear too short or too thin can be made to look longer, wider, or both by getting veneers. Because a veneer adds substance to the tooth, it can both be customized to fit the original tooth while making it appear more aesthetically appealing.

Fixing chipped teeth

Veneers can also be used as an alternative to dental bonding in the event a tooth gets chipped. A chip in a highly visible location like a front tooth can be difficult to conceal with dental bonding, but a veneer can conceal it seamlessly. The dental cement used to attach the veneer can fill in the chip while the veneer itself covers up any irregularity in the tooth.

Fixing gaps in teeth

Because veneers add a small amount of material to the teeth, adding them can reduce or close gaps between teeth. While larger gaps may require other treatment methods to completely close it, smaller gaps can typically be solved with veneers.

Minimize damage from tooth grinding

Years of wear and tear from tooth grinding can cause the teeth to erode and appear shorter or misshapen. Veneers can restore the natural shape of the tooth and help prevent further erosion of the enamel.

Noncosmetic benefits of veneers

In addition to changing the appearance the teeth, veneers applied by a cosmetic dentist can assist with the prevention of oral diseases.

Replace worn down enamel

Eroded enamel can leave the teeth vulnerable to bacteria and decay. Veneers are applied on top of the enamel and can protect weakened enamel from exposure to germs and bacteria.

Maintain the jaw’s structural integrity

Teeth that are misaligned can cause issues such as temporomandibular joint disease, which leads to jaw pain and headaches. Altering the way the teeth align with veneers can help minimize the risk of jaw complications.