Having minor imperfections in our smile can make it difficult to show our full range of emotions. But there’s no reason you have to continue hiding your smile. While not available for everyone, porcelain veneers in Wayne, PA, could help improve the look and feel of your smile. After examining your bite and discussing your cosmetic goals, your dentist may recommend veneers to help fix a variety of dental problems. However, veneers aren’t always going to be the right option for your smile.
Factors to Consider for Porcelain Veneers in Wayne, PA
When getting cosmetic or restorative treatment, there are many factors your dentist looks at when recommending treatment. These variables help determine which course of action will better improve your smile and restore your bite. Everyone’s mouth is different, so no two patients will get the exact same treatment, even for the same problem. Before recommending veneers, your dentist will consider the following.
Location of Issue
Typically, veneers are only used for the anterior teeth that make up your smile line. If you have a fracture or imperfection with your posterior teeth (your molars), your dentist is not likely to recommend veneers. Instead, alternate treatment, such as a dental crown, can help preserve and protect your teeth.
Another important thing to keep in mind when considering the location of the issue is how many teeth are involved. To help maintain balance, veneers are often applied in pairs. If you have multiple teeth that need adjustments, veneers are often a good choice. If you only have one tooth that needs help, however, you may be better off with a different treatment, such as tooth bonding.
Scale of Issue
Porcelain veneers are great restoration options for minor imperfections in your smile. But if you have an extensive case, you may not be able to fix it with veneers. During your consultation and exam, your dentist will study and measure the scale of your dental issue. If the problem is complex, they’ll likely suggest alternate treatments to help fix it.
For example, say you have gaps between your teeth. While porcelain veneers can help close the distance, they may not be the right call. Veneers fit over your existing teeth to help shape them, but if they’re too far off from your tooth’s surface, they could be too structurally unsound to help. In this instance, your dentist might recommend orthodontic treatment, such as Invisalign, instead.
Budget
Porcelain veneers can be costly. And since they are considered a cosmetic treatment, dental insurance is highly unlikely to cover even part of the costs. If you can’t afford veneers, speak with your dentist about your options. In some cases, you may be able to benefit from a more cost-effective treatment or a treatment that is more likely to be covered by insurance. In others, you may be able to set up a payment plan or work with a third-party lender to get the treatment you need.
If you’re unhappy with your smile, Wayne Family Dentistry is here to help. Call us today at 610-347-5133 to schedule a consultation and learn more about our cosmetic dentistry options.