Dental veneers are a useful treatment for a wide range of dental conditions, but many people allow misconceptions to hold them back from finding out more about this option. Here are four myths about dental veneers that dentists wish would die already.

1. Myth: Veneers Are Only a Treatment For Chipped Teeth

In fact, dentists fit dental veneers for a wide range of reasons. For example, dental veneers can cover small gaps between the front teeth, creating the appearance of a straight and even smile. Veneers are also an option if you have badly stained teeth that resist normal whitening techniques.

2. Myth: The Veneer Fitting Process Is Painful

Getting veneers fitted should not hurt at all. Dentists remove very thin layer of enamel to prepare the tooth surface for the veneer, but they do not touch the sensitive inner nerve of the tooth. If your teeth are sensitive, your dentist can use a local anesthetic to block any pain signals during the veneer fitting. Some people experience slight sensitivity after getting porcelain veneers fitted, but this usually goes away within a few days. In the meantime, you can protect your sensitive teeth by avoiding very hot and cold foods.

3. Myth: Veneers Are Incredibly Expensive

Dental Guide Australia gives the cost of a single porcelain veneer as between $1,200 and $1,300, which may be outside many people's budgets. However, the costs of veneers vary widely between individual dentists and patients. Composite veneers are a less expensive option, costing only a few hundred dollars in total. Although porcelain veneers produce the most natural tooth-like appearance, composite veneers can still be a good option for people looking to spend a little less on their cosmetic dental treatment. Both types of veneers are durable and reliable.

4. Myth: Everyone Can Get Veneers

While many patients are held back from getting veneers due to myths, a few take the opposite approach: they assume veneers will solve all their dental problems and are disappointed to learn that this treatment option is not right for them. For example, people who have very thin enamel may not be able to get veneers because there is not enough enamel to allow the dentist to create a strong bond between the veneer and the tooth. People who have serious tooth decay or gum disease also can't get veneers right away. They first need treatment to fix their oral health problems to ensure the teeth and gums are healthy enough to support veneers.