What are Porcelain Veneers? - The Pros and Cons

Whenever we suggest porcelain veneers to one of our patients, there is only one follow up question, “What are porcelain veneers?”

One of the reasons we may recommend veneers to a patient is if they have discolored, damaged, or gapped teeth. Veneers are exactly what you need if you want a more permanent way to fix your teeth imperfections. At Downtown Dentist SF,  we recommend porcelain veneers over resin or “snap-on smiles” simply because they are the best. 

Our office also offers teeth whitening, drop-in dental, and basic dental services to patients in the downtown San Francisco area. Read on to see the pros and cons of porcelain veneers or schedule an appointment to see if veneers are the best option for you. 

READ MORE: Invisalign Treatment And Everything You Need To Know About It

What are Porcelain Veneers?

 

Porcelain veneers are extremely thin bits of porcelain that are used to cover the imperfections in your smile. These little teeth “shells” can be permanently attached to your teeth with a mixed cement bonding agent. 

The best thing about veneers is that they look natural. You won’t have to worry about taking out your veneers and you aren’t very limited by the foods that you can eat. The tooth-colored shells also require a tooth mold so that we can affix the veneers to your exact tooth shape for a comfortable fitting. 

Pros and Cons of Porcelain Veneers

 

Like most things, there are still pros and cons of porcelain veneers. And we like to be upfront, so here’s what you should know:

Pros

  • They cover up teeth discoloration

  • They protect your enamel

  • They’re stain-resistant 

  • They can fill the gaps in your teeth

  • You aren’t limited by what you eat

  • They look exactly like your natural teeth

 

Cons

  • The process takes a few dental appointments

  • They can get expensive 


Indications and Contraindications

 

When a patient comes to Downtown Dentist SF, there are a few indications that will have us suggest veneers immediately. Veneers are best for those who are smokers or avid coffee drinkers because their enamel may be stained to the point where traditional teeth whitening services no longer work. Veneers are also a great option to fix small teeth problems like gapped teeth instead of springing for something such as Invisalign. 

A few other reasons you may need veneers include:

  • Teeth gaps

  • Crooked teeth

  • Chipped teeth

  • Stained enamel 

 

It’s also vital that you are aware of any contraindications of getting veneers. By that what we mean is, why we may not recommend veneers to a patient. Not everyone is suited for veneers, and those reasons include:

  • Severely damaged enamel 

  • Tooth decay

  • Bad habits (such as teeth clenching or grinding)

  • Teeth crowding

 

READ MORE: Downtown Dental SF Services

About Downtown Dental SF 

 

At Downtown Dental SF, you’ll find a vibrant and experienced staff under the helm of Stefka Petrova, DDS. Dr. Petrova can help you with teeth whitening, crowns, bridges, and of course, veneers. 

We are located in the Union Square neighborhood of San Francisco. Our approach is personalized so that our patients feel like family. We use minimal-practices and use high-tech equipment so that your appointment is seamless and enjoyable. Contact our office today to learn more about veneers or to schedule an appointment.

Stefka Petrova DDS