Your smile. It's a reflection of who you are, but if you're not happy with how it looks, your confidence can be affected. If you're in your twenties, you know the importance of a winning smile and its power to help you succeed in the workforce, dating scene, and socially. There are many reasons why you may feel insecure about your smile, including having teeth that are discolored, crooked, chipped, etc., and finding the right dental treatment to fix the problem can seem overwhelming. One of the most common and successful methods for creating a beautiful smile is veneers, but it raises the question, "is it bad to get veneers at a young age?" Since every situation is different, it's important to weigh the pros and cons of choosing veneers in your twenties to make the best decision for you.
What Are Veneers?
Before we can get further into the pros and cons of choosing veneers in your twenties, let's talk about what they are. Veneers are a cosmetic dental procedure where a thin material is permanently bonded to the front surface of your teeth, giving them a natural and uniform appearance. Veneers are made from either a composite resin or porcelain and are an excellent way to treat broken, chipped, discolored, and smaller-than-average teeth. While the front eight teeth are the most commonly applied, you can choose as little as one, an option often chosen in cases where a tooth is chipped or broken.
Are There Different Types Of Veneers?
There are different types of veneers available, and it's up to you and your dentist to decide which one is right for you. Some require extensive preparatory work, which includes grinding down or removing parts of the existing teeth to allow for correct placement. Since the process involves removing a significant portion of the tooth, these veneers are irreversible and will involve using an anesthetic. These are important factors when considering “is it bad to get veneers at a young age?”
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers have been used the longest and create an exceptionally realistic result, fitting over the teeth like a shell. As a permanent solution, they are safe to use in the mouth and, thanks to the material's strength, are very durable. Additionally, porcelain is incredibly stain and plaque-resistant, so you don't have to worry about unsightly buildup or embarrassing staining. The typical porcelain veneer will last between eight and fifteen years, making them an excellent choice for long-term results.
Composite Resin Veneers
Composite resin veneers contain a mixture of materials, including resin, an initiator, filler, and a coupling agent, and are applied directly to the teeth. The mixture is used to fill in and cover the tooth, while a bonding agent resembling your natural color completes the look. Composite resin veneers only take a day to apply, making them a convenient option for those who don't want to spend hours in the dentist's chair. They are also reversible, which is a major advantage if you're unsure about having your teeth ground down. The one major drawback for composite resin veneers is their lifespan, lasting only two to five years with proper care. However, if you're looking for a quick fix, they are an excellent option.
Removable Veneers
While the concept of removable veneers can be confusing since a veneer is most often a permanent application, there are now removable options available. You can choose between prefabricated or custom sets that are easily snapped in and out of place for the utmost convenience. These options are great for anyone who is unsure about undergoing the permanent application process or looking to avoid the cost and repeat dentist visits traditional veneers entail.
The Pros And Cons Of Veneers In Your Twenties
Let's discuss some of the pros and cons of getting veneers in your twenties.
Pro – An Improved Smile
Veneers give you a stunningly beautiful smile without the need for braces or whitening. Once applied, you will have perfect teeth for four to fifteen years, depending on your choice.
Con – They're Permanent
If you're choosing porcelain veneers, you can never remove them and must continue to have them redone every eight to fifteen years. Since you are so young, it's important to consider if you will have dental insurance to cover the cost, the time and expense attached, and whether you will regret making such a permanent decision so early on. It is also important to consider that many insurance plans will not cover a “cosmetic” procedure, such as a veneer, so it’s important to be prepared for this cost.
Pro – Minimal Upkeep
Veneers require only minimal upkeep to continue looking great for years. Receiving regular dental cleanings and maintaining good daily hygiene will ensure they stay white and resist decay.
Con – You Can't Use Whitening Products
One of the first questions people ask is if you can whiten veneers. The veneer material cannot be whitened, which is why proper daily care is so important to ensure they do not stain or discolor.
Pro – More Veneer Options Are Available
Improvements in cosmetic dentistry have opened the door to more veneer options than ever, with removable and non-invasive methods changing the game. Now younger patients have access to effective tooth improvement solutions without having to undergo painful and permanent grinding of their existing teeth. If you're considering veneers, it's important to talk to your dentist about what option is right for you. They can help answer any questions you may have about which veneers are best for your age and which to avoid.
Conclusion
At Arkansas Family Dental, we specialize in creating the perfect smile, helping our patients overcome their insecurities, and rediscovering their confidence. We also understand the heaviness of deciding, “is it bad to get veneers at a young age?” Our wide range of cosmetic dental procedures addresses many dental problems, like:
- Brown or yellow teeth
- Fractures or chips
- Crooked teeth
- Misshapen or uneven teeth
- Gaps
We will work with you to develop a customized treatment plan utilizing our smile-transforming options, including:
- Veneers
- Botox
- Crowns
- Fillers
- Bridges
- Invisalign
- Fillings
- Contouring
- Bonding
- Whitening
For more information, visit our site and download our FREE Cosmetic Dentistry Guide, which includes before and after pictures of real Arkansas Family Dental Patients. Your smile is important; make sure it's in the best hands with Arkansas Family Dental!
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