Why Do Dentists Not Recommend Veneers?

Why do dentists not recommend veneers?

A dentist may hold back on veneers when the risks outweigh the benefits for that person. The most common reasons are teeth grinding, active decay or gum disease, thin or weak enamel, and the fact that removing enamel cannot be reversed. For many people with healthy teeth, veneers remain a reasonable choice.

Enamel removal cannot be undone

The American Dental Association explains that veneer treatment is not reversible because tooth enamel is removed to place a veneer. Cleveland Clinic adds that you will lose at least some natural enamel, and that some no-prep or minimal-prep styles may be reversible.

This is why a careful dentist wants you to be sure. If a smile concern can be solved with less change to the tooth, that route may come first. Our page on porcelain veneers in Smyrna, GA explains how the process works.

Grinding and clenching

The ADA says that if you clench or grind your teeth, or have a deep overbite, veneers may not be a good choice. A systematic review of porcelain veneer studies also cites one study that found a significantly higher failure rate in people who grind their teeth. A night guard may be part of the plan before or after veneers.

Problems that come first

Cleveland Clinic says veneers are only an option if you are free of extensive cavities and gum disease, and the ADA says your dentist must first treat issues like decay or gum disease. A veneer does not fix these problems. It only covers the front of the tooth.

Do teeth rot under veneers?

Yes, the natural tooth under a veneer can still get cavities, although decay was uncommon in the studies reviewed. Cleveland Clinic notes that the natural tooth underneath can still decay, and the ADA says you can still get cavities under or around a veneer.

What the research shows

A review of 6,500 porcelain veneers across 25 clinical studies, published on PubMed Central, found an estimated 10-year survival rate of 95.5 percent, counting fractures, loose veneers, decay and the need for nerve treatment as failures. When decay alone was counted, the estimated 10-year rate was 99.3 percent, with 8 cases of decay across 5 studies. Where timing was reported, the decay showed up after 5 years. Fracture was the most common problem, followed by loose veneers, and both were more common in the first few years.

How to lower the risk

The ADA recommends brushing with fluoride toothpaste twice a day and cleaning between your teeth daily. Regular exams matter too, so a dentist can check your veneers and the teeth around them. If you have noticed a rough edge or a dark line at a veneer, call the office so a dentist can take a look. You can also read about a broken veneer and what to do.

Want this checked? If you are unsure whether veneers suit your teeth, you can book an exam online or call (770) 863-0005, and we will talk through your options with no pressure.

What is the downside of having veneers?

The main downsides are that some enamel is removed, the change cannot be undone, and veneers do not last forever. They can also cause sensitivity, chip, come loose, or stain at the edges. Knowing these tradeoffs up front helps you decide if veneers fit your goals.

Common drawbacks

• Sensitivity: Cleveland Clinic says teeth may become more sensitive to heat and cold.

• Chips, cracks or loosening: The ADA says a veneer can chip, crack, wear down or loosen over time, and may need to be re-bonded, repaired or replaced.

• Replacement: Cleveland Clinic says veneers typically last 10 to 15 years, so replacement may be part of the long-term picture.

• Staining habits: The ADA suggests limiting staining drinks such as coffee and red wine.

To go deeper on lifespan, see our post on how long veneers last.

Can I bite an apple with veneers?

You can, but it is safer to cut an apple into slices first. Cleveland Clinic advises against biting directly into hard or crunchy foods like apples and carrots, and suggests cutting them up and chewing with your back teeth. The ADA also says to avoid chewing on hard objects.

Everyday eating

Most meals are fine. The concern is force on the thin front edge of the veneer. Our post on eating normally with veneers covers day-to-day food questions in more detail.

Who is not a good candidate for veneers?

People who grind their teeth, have untreated decay or gum disease, or have weak enamel may not be good candidates right now. Some of these issues can be treated first, and a dentist can tell you whether that changes the answer. A checkup is the only way to know for sure.

Options to talk through

If veneers are not the right fit, you still have choices. Bonding reshapes teeth with tooth-colored material and often removes less enamel, and we compare the two in dental bonding vs. veneers. Our cosmetic dentistry team can also walk you through whitening, aligners and other approaches.

The right time to ask is before any enamel is touched. A good dentist should be comfortable telling you "not yet" or "not this option."