Dental veneers are a common cosmetic procedure that patients seek to improve the look and shape of their teeth. Dental veneers have been perfected over the years, allowing patients to have a better smile while also providing some protection to the original teeth. Having veneers can boost your confidence and set you up for quality dentures in the future.
One question that dentists get asked is, can veneers strengthen your teeth? While veneers can provide benefits to your oral health, the word strengthen may not be the best to describe the benefits of this cosmetic service. Veneers need to be applied to stable teeth, so while they can provide protection, there is really nothing that can strengthen your teeth if they are too damaged. Learn more about veneers and how they impact your teeth in this blog.
What Are Veneers?
Dental veneers are a thin shell that fits over your original teeth. They are made from porcelain or composite to mimic the look and feel of natural teeth. Veneers help to even out the look of your smile, make it appear whiter, and cover chips, gaps, and deterioration. Veneers are only applied by a dentist or cosmetic dentist in order for them to last and provide any protection to the original teeth. Many patients choose veneers to cover discoloration or gaps in their smile.
When Veneers Can Help Strengthen Teeth
The answer to the question, can veneers strengthen your teeth, is complicated. The answer is not a simple yes or no; rather, it depends on your current oral health. Veneers can help provide protective benefits for teeth, but they can’t reverse negative effects that have already occurred. By having veneers in place, your natural teeth will be less impacted by stains, chips, and bacteria. Even the best veneers can not replace enamel that was stripped away by acidic drinks, improper brushing, or alcohol. They can, however, provide you with a better quality of life by allowing you to feel confident and eat properly.
Protective Benefits Of Veneers
Looking at the benefits of veneers, they can have some added protection for the natural teeth when properly cared for.
Strengthen Cracked Or Chipped Teeth
Since veneers are made of a durable material and are applied over your existing teeth, they can protect them from further chipping. While your tooth may already be damaged, veneers can help stop the tooth from falling out or decaying altogether.
Chipped teeth can also be hard to chew with, so getting veneers fills out the tooth to make it more enjoyable. A full tooth makes it easier to talk and eat normally without stabbing pain.
Prevent Excessive Enamel Deterioration
The synthetic materials of veneers are not prone to discoloration or deterioration as natural enamel. Applying veneers protects your natural teeth from further enamel damage, allowing you to maintain your jaw shape and strength. Veneers need to be applied to strong teeth and will only remain if your existing teeth remain in your mouth. Taking care of your teeth and veneers will help you enjoy a perfect smile late into your life.
Improve Bite Alignment
Some patients can see improved bites when they have veneers. Correcting these issues by filling in gaps from decayed teeth will help relieve pressure on certain teeth. Not only can bite issues cause difficulty eating or speaking, but they can also put unnecessary tension on your jaw. Tension in your jaw can lead to headaches, teeth grinding, and other issues down the road. Veneers can give the impression of strengthened teeth as it makes eating or talking easier, but it does not improve the natural tooth.
Dental Services From Sunset Dental Care
Sunset Dental Care provides a variety of dental services for patients of all ages. We are a family-oriented business, which means we offer dental services for children, teens, adults, and the elderly. Each dentist and hygienist at Sunset Dental is dedicated to helping you love your smile and boosting your confidence. We offer dental bridges, dental implants, night guards, dental crowns, extractions, and cleanings for all our patients. With affordable prices, covered by most insurance plans, our dental office is one of the best choices for oral care in Utah.