Without a doubt, if you’re looking to enhance your smile, porcelain veneers should be your go-to solution. But, what are porcelain veneers? They are a thin layer of ceramics that is meticulously put to the front surface of the teeth, which provides an immediate improvement in appearance.
At Bedford Dental Group, we have over 30 years experience in cosmetic dentistry. Our team comprises highly skilled professionals who specialize in porcelain veneers amongst other cosmetic dental procedures.
We are committed to delivering results that not only meet but exceed your expectations, ensuring a beautiful and healthy smile. Our goal is to provide you with a comfortable and positive experience, from your initial consultation through to the completion of your treatment. Contact us today!
However, it is crucial to weigh the pros and cons of this procedure before going ahead with it. In this article, we aim to give a balanced view to help you make an informed decision about your dental care.
Understanding Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers is a cosmetic dental procedure for people looking to enhance their beautiful smile. These thin layers are designed to mimic the natural appearance of tooth enamel. However, they are not a permanent fix because, unlike natural teeth, they only last up to between 10 to 15 years.
Dental veneers are popular because they act as replacements for various dental issues. From discoloration and yellow dentin to gaps and even crooked teeth. Your self esteem is always restored with veneers.
Porcelain veneers work by covering the visible front surface of the teeth, effectively concealing imperfections. They are custom-made to fit the unique contours of each tooth, ensuring a natural and comfortable fit. Unlike other dental procedures that may require extensive modifications to the tooth structure, veneers necessitate minimal preparation, preserving the integrity of the natural tooth while delivering transformative results. Their stain-resistant nature also means that veneers maintain their color and brightness, offering a durable solution to many cosmetic dental issues.
The process of getting porcelain veneers starts with a detailed consultation with a cosmetic dentist. The specialist dentist will evaluate your dental health and discuss your aesthetic goals. This stage often involves taking impressions or images of your teeth to design veneers that perfectly match your natural teeth in color and shape.
To ensure a proper fit, a small amount of tooth enamel is gently removed. This process is minimally invasive but crucial for the veneer to bond effectively with the tooth. Then, impressions of your teeth are sent to a dental lab where your custom veneers are created. It is called veneer fabrication. This process can take a few weeks, during which temporary veneers may be placed.
Once your veneers are ready, your dentist will precisely fit and bond them to your teeth, making any necessary adjustments to ensure a perfect match and comfortable bite. After the placement, a follow-up visit is usually scheduled to ensure the veneers are properly seated and comfortable.
The Pros of Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are a highly sought-after solution within the field of cosmetic dentistry procedures. Aside from covering up imperfections, they also come with other numerous benefits. This is why it is highly recommended amongst other cosmetic dentistry procedures.
Some of the cosmetic benefits of porcelain veneers are:
Aesthetic Improvement

One advantage of porcelain veneers lies in their exceptional ability to improve the appearance of your teeth. Veneers can dramatically whiten teeth that have been discolored by food, drinks, smoking cigarettes, or even root canal treatment, providing a lasting brightness that teeth whitening procedures alone cannot achieve.
Whether you have teeth that are worn down, chipped, or naturally misshapen, veneers can be sculpted to create a more uniform and appealing look, enhancing the overall symmetry of your smile. For those with minor misalignments or unsightly gaps between teeth, veneers offer a quicker and less invasive alternative to braces or other orthodontic procedures. They instantly correct these issues without the need for complicated dental work.
Beyond the obvious cosmetic benefits, porcelain veneers have a profound impact on an individual’s self-esteem and confidence. A beautiful smile can significantly enhance how a person feels about themselves, improving social interactions, professional opportunities, and the overall quality of life.
Durability and Longevity
Porcelain veneers stand out not only for their aesthetic benefits but also for their durability and longevity. The lifespan of porcelain veneers typically ranges between 10 to 15 years, and with meticulous care, some veneers can even last beyond 20 years.
Composite veneers, another popular cosmetic solution, typically have a shorter lifespan compared to porcelain veneers, usually lasting around 5 to 7 years. Although less expensive, composite resin veneers are more prone to staining and do not offer the same level of durability or aesthetic quality as porcelain veneers.
However, even when compared to other cosmetic dental procedures, porcelain veneers still stand out. For example, while teeth whitening procedures can significantly brighten the smile, they require periodic maintenance since the teeth can become stained again over time. Porcelain veneers, in contrast, offer a permanent solution to tooth discoloration, with superior stain resistance that maintains the whiteness of the veneers for many years.
Dental bonding can address minor cosmetic issues, such as chips or small gaps. However, the composite material used in bonding is not as strong or long-lasting as porcelain. Bonding may need to be replaced or repaired more frequently, making it a less durable option over time.
While dental crowns can last a long time, similar to porcelain veneers, they typically require more extensive tooth preparation. This can compromise the natural tooth structure but is necessary for restoring teeth that are significantly damaged. Porcelain veneers, being a more conservative treatment, are preferred for purely cosmetic enhancements.
This impressive longevity is attributed to the high-quality ceramic material used in their fabrication, which is resistant to stains, chips, and wear. However, the actual lifespan of porcelain veneers depends on several factors, including the quality of the dental work, the veneer’s material, and the patient’s oral hygiene practices.
Regular dental check-ups, proper oral hygiene, and avoiding habits that can damage the veneers, such as teeth grinding, biting hard objects, or using teeth as tools, are crucial for extending their life.
Stain Resistance
One of the standout features of porcelain veneers is their exceptional stain resistance. This resistance is primarily due to the materials from which the veneers are made, along with the finish applied to their surface.
Porcelain veneers are crafted from high-quality ceramic materials that inherently resist staining. The surface of a porcelain veneer is extremely smooth and non-porous. This means substances like coffee, tea, red wine, and smoking cigarettes have a difficult time adhering to it.
Additionally, the glaze applied to porcelain veneers during the final steps of fabrication also plays a crucial role in stain resistance. This glaze seals the veneer to further enhance its stain-resistant qualities without the need for ongoing teeth whitening treatments.
While porcelain veneers are highly resistant to staining, maintaining their brightness does require some care. Some tips for keeping your veneers looking their best include practicing good oral hygiene and attending regular dental check-ups. You should also avoid using your teeth as tools and wear a protective guard if necessary. Wearing a protective guard is essential for those who grind or clench their teeth at night.
Minimal Tooth Enamel Removal

Porcelain veneers are celebrated amongst cosmetic dentistry procedures for the conservative approach they offer regarding tooth preparation. Unlike other dental dentistry procedures like dental crowns, porcelain veneers require minimal removal of tooth enamel.
In contrast, fitting a dental crown requires a more extensive reshaping of the entire tooth. The procedure removes more of the natural tooth, which can never be replaced.
The more natural tooth material that can be retained, the better it is for the long-term health and function of the tooth. Keeping the natural tooth structure as intact as possible helps to maintain the tooth’s strength and durability.
Less enamel removal means that the protective outer layer of the tooth is largely preserved. This reduces the risk of post-treatment sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures.
Customization
Another advantage of porcelain veneers is that they give a personalized approach to achieving a smile that is beautiful and natural. The success of porcelain veneers significantly depends on the skills and expertise of the dentist in cosmetic dentistry.
It is why you should reach out to us at Bedford Dental Group. With over 30 years of experience, we understand the need for technical precision. We also know effective communication between the dentist and patient is key. Our goal is to give you a soft cushioning to achieve a radiant smile! Contact us now!
The Cons of Porcelain Veneers
While porcelain veneers come with a lot of benefits, there are also some drawbacks to this process. People are often hesitant for fear of adverse effects as they lack a proper understanding of the process.
Some cons that should be considered before making a final decision on getting these dental veneers are:
Cost

While porcelain veneers offer a transformative solution for many cosmetic dental issues, one of the primary considerations for patients is the cost. Porcelain veneers are often perceived as one of the more expensive options in cosmetic dentistry. The cost can vary widely depending on factors such as the number of veneers needed, the complexity of the case, the geographic location of the dental practice, and the expertise of the dentist. It’s important to consider the durability, longevity, and aesthetic benefits of porcelain veneers when evaluating their value.
At Bedford Dental Group, we understand that the cost of porcelain veneers can be a significant concern for our patients. We strive to address this concern by offering clear and upfront information about the cost of treatment. This ensures that patients understand the investment involved. We also offer payment plans and financing options.
Irreversibility
One of the things to consider when choosing porcelain veneers is their irreversible process. The process of applying porcelain veneers involves the removal of a thin layer of the tooth’s enamel to ensure a proper fit and natural look. This alteration is permanent because enamel, once removed, cannot regenerate.
The amount of enamel removed is typically minimal, yet it’s enough to necessitate the teeth always being covered with veneers or another form of dental restoration moving forward. This requirement is due to the exposed dentin (the tissue beneath the enamel) being more susceptible to wear, tooth sensitivity, and tooth decay.
Before deciding on porcelain veneers, it’s important for patients to thoroughly discuss and consider several factors like long-term commitment, oral health status, lifestyle and habits, etc.
At Bedford Dental Group, we approach the permanence of porcelain veneers with a comprehensive and patient-centric strategy by ensuring that every patient undergoes a thorough consultation process. This includes evaluating their oral health, discussing their aesthetic goals, and fully explaining the veneer process, including its irreversible nature.
For patients uncertain about the permanence of veneers, we discuss alternative treatments that might be reversible or less invasive. This ensures that each patient makes an informed decision that aligns with their comfort level and dental goals.
Sensitivity

One of the considerations when opting for porcelain veneers is the potential increase in sensitivity. This sensitivity is often a result of the enamel removal required during the veneer application process.
To manage dental sensitivity after getting dental veneers, you should use a soft-bristled toothbrush and desensitizing toothpaste. It also helps to avoid extreme temperatures and to be consistent with follow-up care with your dentist.
At Bedford Dental Group, we are particular about patient education. We educate our patients on what to expect during and after the veneer procedure, including potential sensitivity and how to manage it. We also provide personalized aftercare recommendations, including specific products to use and dietary adjustments to manage sensitivity effectively.
Not a Solution for Every Dental Issue
It’s essential to recognize that porcelain veneers are not a one-size-fits-all solution for every dental issue. Veneers are primarily a cosmetic solution and do not address problems such as decay, gum disease, significant misalignments, or severe structural damage to teeth. Attempting to use veneers as a remedy for these issues without addressing the underlying problems can lead to further dental complications down the line.
Before considering porcelain veneers, a comprehensive dental evaluation is paramount. This evaluation should include assessment of oral health and analysis of underlying tooth structure. These help to determine if dental veneers are a suitable option. This thorough approach ensures that veneers are used appropriately, augmenting the smile without compromising dental health.
For us at Bedford Dental Group, when porcelain veneers are not the most appropriate solution due to underlying dental health issues, we explore alternative treatments. These may include orthodontics, dental crowns, or periodontal therapy, depending on the specific needs of the patient.
Making the Decision

Deciding to enhance your smile with porcelain veneers is a significant step that involves several important considerations. Before making a final decision, think of your aesthetic goals, dental health, cost, and alternatives.
Also, ensure that you work with a trusted cosmetic dentist like Bedford Dental Group to ensure you receive detailed information about the veneer process, what it entails, benefits, and drawbacks. A proper consultation gives you the opportunity to get a tailored treatment plan that aligns with your aesthetic goals and dental health.
Are Porcelain Veneers Right For You?
Porcelain veneers offer a transformative potential for those looking to enhance their smile. However, like any dental procedure, they come with their own set of benefits and drawbacks.
When considering veneers, it’s important to weigh their long-term benefits against the initial investment and consider how they fit into your overall dental health plan. Choosing the right dental practice is crucial in ensuring that you get the most out of your investment in porcelain veneers.
At Bedford Dental Group, we specialize in providing personalized and high-quality cosmetic dental care to help our patients achieve their dream smiles with porcelain veneers. Our team is committed to excellence, from the initial consultation through the entire treatment process, ensuring your experience is as rewarding as the results.
Ready to explore how porcelain veneers can transform your smile? Contact Bedford Dental Group today to schedule your consultation!