Veneers are a versatile dental application that not only can transform your smile, but also can benefit your overall oral health. When you think of veneers, the sparkling, beautiful smiles they create likely come to mind, but there are non-cosmetic reasons that make veneers a good choice, too.
In some cases, veneers are good alternative to crowns, and they can help protect your teeth from bacteria to guard your oral health. Visiting a dentist is a good place to start in determining whether veneers are a good option.
Our providers at Santa Monica Bay Dental routinely recommend veneers to improve smiles and boost oral health. Our highly trained team of dentists and periodontists use the most up-to-date technology and advancements in dentistry. Whether you’re having a dental emergency, need a routine cleaning, or have questions about maintaining good oral health, we can help.
Veneers offer benefits that extend beyond aesthetics. Here, our experts discuss three common dental problems that veneers can fix.
Correct uneven spacing
Spaces between teeth are a major reason people seek cosmetic dentistry. While a “spacy” look might be a signature for some, most people prefer straight teeth that fit close together. And they’re right. Not only does that snug fit look nice, but it’s also better for your oral health.
Gaps between teeth promote bacterial growth, enabling harmful bacteria to build up and contribute to plaque and tartar. Over time this buildup can cause tooth decay.
Gaps also leave room for neighboring teeth to shift, giving you not only crooked teeth, but a misaligned bite as well. Before you know it, you’re hit with jaw pain and damaged teeth.
By repairing those gaps with veneers, you save your teeth from complications such as periodontitis and ongoing issues that come with a misaligned bite.
Seal surface cracks
A broken or severely cracked tooth is an obvious case for veneers. However, you may have tiny cracks that aren’t noticeable enough for you to feel concerned. But think again. Hairline cracks serve as a gateway to the inside of your teeth.
Microscopic bacteria can seep into those cracks, rapidly reproduce, leave behind toxins substances, and wreak havoc on your oral health. Veneers act as a protective covering on top of your teeth to keep out germs and reduce the chances of developing infections and cavities.
Strengthen enamel
Enamel is vital to keeping your teeth healthy. This hard outer layer is a glossy protective coating that brightens your teeth. Unlike your skin and hair, enamel doesn’t regenerate. Once it becomes weak or damaged, that’s it.
Some people have a genetic predisposition for weak enamel. In other cases, acidic foods and beverages slowly damage enamel over some time.
The unfortunate truth is that once enamel is gone, it’s gone. As is the case with cracks, weak or damaged enamel serves as a target for bacteria. With a compromised barrier, you’re at greater risk for tooth decay.
Veneers bond to your teeth’ surface, replacing what can’t be regrown naturally. Porcelain veneers last for years and can keep your teeth protected as well as or better than your enamel.
If you’re considering veneers for cosmetic purposes, you’re also making a great choice for your oral health. When you’re ready to get started, contact our team at Santa Monica Bay Dental by calling the office or requesting an appointment online using our online form.
