Cosmetic dentistry procedures have significantly increased in popularity in recent years, with dental veneers leading the trend.
Dental veneers, thin custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of teeth, can transform your smile from ordinary to extraordinary. They are an excellent option for a variety of dental issues, including:
- Gaps Between Teeth:
Dental veneers can seamlessly fill in unsightly gaps, providing a uniform appearance to your smile. - Chips in Teeth:
Minor imperfections like chips can be easily masked with veneers, restoring the natural look of your teeth. - Broken Teeth:
For teeth that are broken or significantly damaged, veneers can provide a fresh, intact surface. - Discoloured Teeth:
Veneers can cover stains and discolouration that teeth whitening procedures can’t eliminate, giving you a brighter smile. - Misshapen Teeth:
If your teeth are irregular in shape, veneers can provide a more uniform and appealing look. - Misaligned Teeth:
While not a replacement for orthodontic treatments, veneers can make minor adjustments to the alignment of your teeth, improving your smile’s appearance. They also work for minor cases of crooked teeth.
However, it’s important to note that despite the popularity and benefits of the dental veneers procedure, not everyone is a suitable candidate.
This blog post explores dental veneers candidacy and helps you understand if this procedure suits you. We cover everything from the procedure itself to maintaining your veneers and even discuss dental veneers alternatives.
So, keep reading if you’re considering improving your smile with veneers.

Summary of the Content
- Dental veneers candidacy involves assessing a patient’s suitability for the procedure, considering factors like dental health, sufficient layer of tooth enamel, absence of bruxism, realistic expectations, and commitment to oral hygiene.
- Oral health is crucial in determining candidacy. Issues like gum disease, active tooth decay, a misaligned bite, insufficient tooth enamel, and bruxism can affect dental veneer eligibility also.
- Lifestyle factors, including smoking, teeth grinding, diet, oral hygiene practices, and participation in contact sports, can influence candidacy.
- Age is a factor in candidacy. Veneers are usually recommended for adults due to tooth development, changing teeth, oral care habits, risk of damage, and cost considerations.
- Cosmetic goals can influence candidacy. Veneers can improve discoloured teeth, address misshapen teeth and minor misalignment, cover chips or cracks, and enhance tooth size and shape.
- The cost of veneers can influence the decision to pursue dental veneer treatment. It’s important to consider the long-term value of veneers, including their durability, improved self-confidence, ease of maintenance, and versatility.
What Does Dental Veneers Candidacy Mean
When we talk about dental veneers candidacy, we’re referring to the evaluation process that determines if a patient is a suitable candidate for the dental veneers procedure. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all cosmetic procedure. Dental professionals must consider several factors when determining whether a patient fits this popular dental option. These factors include:
- Oral Health:
Good oral health is a prerequisite for any dental treatment, and dental veneers are no exception. Conditions like gum disease or extensive tooth decay must be addressed before considering veneers. This is because unhealthy gums may not respond well to the veneers, and decayed teeth may not provide a strong base for the veneer material. - Sufficient Tooth Enamel:
Dental veneers are bonded to your natural teeth’s enamel. Therefore, having ample tooth enamel is crucial for the procedure’s success. Without sufficient enamel, the dental bonding process might not be effective, leading to potential issues with the veneers in the future. - Absence of Bruxism:
Habitual grinding of teeth, also known as bruxism, can damage veneers. A patient without this habit is usually a better dental veneer candidate. If you have bruxism, your dentist might recommend alternatives to veneers or treatments to address the grinding before proceeding with the veneers. - Realistic Expectations:
It is important for every candidate to understand the dental veneers procedure and its maintenance and have realistic expectations of the results. Veneers can dramatically improve a smile but still require extra care and may not create ‘flawless’ teeth. - Commitment to Oral Hygiene:
Dental veneers require good oral hygiene for longevity. A commitment to maintaining oral health is essential. This includes regular brushing, flossing, and routine cleanings.
The Role of Oral Health in Dental Veneers Candidacy
Oral health plays a pivotal role in determining dental veneers candidacy. If you’re considering this cosmetic procedure, it’s important to understand how your oral health status can influence your eligibility for veneers. Here are five common oral health issues that may affect your candidacy for veneers:
- Gum Disease:
This condition can affect the success of the dental veneers procedure. It’s essential to have gum disease under control before considering veneers. Unhealthy gums can lead to complications during the procedure and may affect the longevity of the veneers. - Tooth Decay:
Decay can weaken teeth, making them unsuitable for veneers. Any decay must be addressed before the procedure. This is because veneers need a strong base to bond with for a successful procedure. - Misaligned Bite:
A severely misaligned bite can put undue pressure on veneers, potentially damaging them. Orthodontic treatments may be necessary before veneers can be considered so the veneers do not suffer from unnecessary wear and tear due to a misaligned bite. - Insufficient Tooth Enamel:
Veneers are bonded to the layer of enamel. If there’s not enough enamel, the veneer may not adhere properly, affecting its durability and appearance. Your cosmetic dentist will assess the state of your enamel before recommending veneers. - Bruxism (Teeth Grinding):
Regular grinding of teeth can cause veneers to chip or crack. If you have this habit, your dentist may recommend dental treatment options to protect your veneers and natural teeth. This is done so that your new veneers do not get damaged due to this habit.
Maintaining oral health is important for the dental veneers procedure’s success and overall well-being. To start the process of getting veneers, you are advised to schedule an appointment with your dentist for an oral health assessment to determine if you are an ideal candidate for the dental treatment procedure.
Lifestyle Factors Influencing Dental Veneers Candidacy
When considering the dental veneers procedure, it’s important to understand that certain lifestyle factors can influence your candidacy. These factors can affect the longevity and effectiveness of dental veneers. Here are five lifestyle factors that can play a significant role:
- Smoking:
Smoking can lead to tooth discolouration, which may affect the appearance of your veneers over time. It can also contribute to periodontal disease, which can compromise the success of the dental veneers procedure. - Teeth Grinding:
As mentioned earlier, habitual teeth grinding, or bruxism, can damage veneers. If you have this habit, your dentist may recommend a night guard to protect your veneers and natural teeth. - Diet:
Consuming foods and drinks that cause stains, such as coffee, tea, and red wine, can discolour veneers, especially composite veneers. Maintaining a diet low on these items can help keep your veneers looking beautiful and healthy. - Oral Hygiene Practices:
Good oral hygiene habits are crucial for the longevity of dental veneers. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are necessary to keep your veneers in top condition. - Participation in Contact Sports:
If you regularly participate in contact sports without mouth protection, you may risk damaging your veneers. A mouth guard can help protect your veneers during such activities.
Age and Dental Veneers Candidacy
Age can indeed influence dental veneers candidacy. While the procedure has no strict age limit, dental veneers are usually recommended for adults. This is due to several reasons:
- Tooth Development:
In children and young teens, the teeth are still developing. The jaw is growing, and the level and position of the teeth are changing. Placing veneers at this stage could interfere with natural tooth growth and may not fit properly as the teeth continue to grow and change. - Changing Teeth:
As children grow, the level and position of their teeth can change significantly. This could affect the fit and appearance of veneers. Veneers are custom-made to fit the existing teeth precisely. If the teeth position changes after the veneers are placed, it could lead to an undesirable appearance and may require replacement or adjustment. - Oral Care Habits:
Younger individuals may not have established good oral care habits yet. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are crucial for maintaining dental veneers. Without these habits, the veneers may not last as long as they should. - Risk of Damage:
Children and teens are often more prone to accidents that could damage the veneers, such as falls or sports-related incidents. Veneers are durable, but they are not indestructible. They can chip or crack under pressure, and repairing or replacing damaged veneers can be costly. - Cost and Maintenance:
The cost of veneers and ongoing dental veneers maintenance may be prohibitive for younger patients, considering the potential need for replacement as they grow. Veneers are a significant investment, and it’s important to consider the long-term costs.
Dental Veneers Candidacy and Cosmetic Goals
Your cosmetic goals can significantly influence your candidacy for dental veneers. Dental veneers are a versatile cosmetic procedure that can help achieve a variety of cosmetic goals, including:
- Improving the Appearance of Discoloured Teeth:
If teeth whitening treatments are not effective, veneers can provide a brighter smile by covering discoloured teeth. They can mask discolouration caused by certain medications or dental injuries. - Addressing Misshapen Teeth:
If your teeth are irregularly shaped, veneers can provide a more uniform and aesthetically pleasing smile. They can also address issues like excessive tooth wear or uneven teeth, providing a more balanced and harmonious appearance. - Addressing Minor Misalignment:
While not a replacement for orthodontic treatments, veneers can make minor adjustments to the alignment of your teeth, improving your smile’s appearance. They can mask minor gaps, overlaps, or twists in your teeth without the need for braces or aligners. - Covering Chips or Cracks:
Veneers can cover minor chips or cracks in your teeth, providing a smoother, more dazzling smile. They can restore the appearance of damaged teeth, making them look intact and healthy again. - Enhancing Tooth Size and Shape:
If you have teeth that are too small or do not match the rest of your teeth, veneers can enhance their size and shape for a more balanced, natural-looking smile. They can make short or worn-down teeth appear longer or wider and modify the shape of teeth to match the rest of your smile better.
It’s important to discuss your cosmetic goals with your dentist to determine if veneers are the right option for you or if other dental veneers alternatives may be more suitable.
The Cost Factor in Dental Veneers Candidacy
The decision to pursue the dental veneers procedure should not be taken lightly, especially when considering the cost. Dental veneers, while a viable option for various dental issues, can be quite an investment. Here’s a breakdown of the average costs associated with different types of veneers:
- Dental Porcelain Veneers:
These are usually priced at an average of $2,036 for each tooth. They are known for their durability and natural appearance. Traditional veneers, usually made of porcelain, are custom-made to fit your teeth and can last up to 15 years with proper care. They are resistant to stains and closely resemble the light-reflecting properties of natural teeth. - Composite Resin Veneers:
This is a more affordable option, starting at $836 for each tooth. However, they may not last as long as their porcelain counterparts. Composite resin veneers are less durable and may need to be replaced more frequently. On the other hand, they require less tooth surface removal and can often be applied in a single visit. - Prepless Veneers:
These range from $1,200 to $3,000 per tooth. They require little to no removal of the natural tooth enamel. Prepless veneers are a conservative approach to improving your smile, preserving the maximum amount of natural tooth structure. - Snap-On:
These can cost up to $900 per tooth. They are a removable option that snaps over your natural teeth. Snap-On veneers are a non-invasive option that can be removed and cleaned separately. They are a popular option for those looking for a temporary way to improve their smile for special occasions.
These costs can significantly influence a person’s decision to pursue this dental veneer treatment. However, it’s important to consider the long-term value of dental veneers, which includes:
- Durability:
With proper dental veneers maintenance, they can last for many years, making them a worthwhile investment. The longevity of veneers for teeth can offset the initial cost, providing value over time. - Improved Self-Confidence:
A beautiful smile can significantly boost your self-confidence, impacting various aspects of your personal and professional life. The psychological benefits of an improved smile should not be underestimated. - Ease of Maintenance:
Unlike some dental procedures, dental veneers maintenance does not require any special care beyond good oral hygiene practices. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are usually sufficient to keep your veneers for teeth in good condition. - Versatility:
Veneers can address a variety of cosmetic issues, from discolouration to minor misalignment, making them a versatile cosmetic treatment option. This flexibility allows you to address multiple issues with a single procedure, saving time and potentially reducing overall treatment costs.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the ins and outs of dental veneers candidacy is a crucial step in your journey toward a stunning smile transformation. It’s important to remember that while dental veneers can offer a transformative smile makeover for many people, they are not a one-size-fits-all treatment. Each individual’s oral health, lifestyle, cosmetic goals, and financial considerations play a significant role in determining the suitability of this procedure.
To recap, here are the things that you should remember:
- Oral health is the foundation of any cosmetic dentistry procedure. Conditions such as gum disease, tooth decay, or insufficient tooth enamel can affect the success of the dental veneers procedure. Therefore, addressing any underlying oral health issues is essential before considering veneers for teeth.
- Lifestyle factors, too, can influence your dental veneers candidacy. Habits such as smoking or teeth grinding can affect the longevity and effectiveness of dental veneers. Discussing these factors with your dentist during your consultation appointment is important.
- Your cosmetic goals are another key consideration. Dental veneers can help achieve a variety of cosmetic goals, from improving the appearance of discoloured or broken teeth to addressing minor misalignment. However, it’s important to have realistic expectations and understand that veneers are not always the most suitable treatment option for more severe stains or misalignments.
- Lastly, the cost of dental veneers can be a significant factor in your decision. While veneers can be quite an investment, it’s important to consider their long-term value. With their durability, potential for improved self-confidence, and ease of maintenance, veneers can be a worthwhile investment for many individuals.
However, dental veneers are not the only option for improving your smile. Other dental veneers alternatives may be more suitable depending on your specific circumstances. These alternatives could include orthodontic treatments, teeth whitening, or dental crowns, among others.
At Clear Choice Dental, we are committed to helping our patients make the right decisions for their oral health and smile beauty. We encourage you to book a consultation appointment by calling our clinic or through our website. Our team of professionals will guide you through your dental veneer makeover journey, providing you with all the information you need to make the right choice.
We look forward to helping you achieve a smile that not only looks great but also contributes to your overall confidence and well-being.