We Asked A Dentist About Veneers, Here's What You Need To Know

Veneers have been growing in popularity in recent years despite the cosmetic dental procedure being around for quite some time now. Fan theories and even licensed dentists have hopped on the speculation train on who may or may not have had veneers done (some, make comments on how badly the procedure was done, too), due to how rampant it is RN. 

Why has it gotten more attention? Maybe because it provides instant effects—like whiter and more aligned teeth that cover gaps—all with no downtime. So it is no surprise that there is a lot of interest and curiosity in veneers right now.

But before committing to any procedure, of course, it's important to learn more about it—also to avoid potential disappointment, regret, and just overall help yourself to prepare (physically, mentally, and financially!!) for it. Interested? Don't worry, we took the liberty to ask a dentist some common FAQs about veneers for you. *wink* 

READ MORE: Everything You Need To Know About Getting Veneers

"Veneers are slender, custom shell-like crowns, usually made from porcelain or composite resin, designed to fit over the front of the teeth to enhance their look," Stephanie Satorre, DMD of Satorre Dental Clinic, shared in a conversation with Cosmopolitan Philippines. 

She also explained that patients commonly get veneers due to their instant results. "Patients often seek veneers for a brighter, more even smile and appreciate the quick, minimally invasive solution they offer compared to other dental treatments."

In the Philippines, the cost of veneers varies depending on the material as well as the clinic. "Porcelain veneers typically range from P15,000 to P30,000 per tooth, while composite resin veneers are more affordable and usually range between P8,000 to P15,000," Dr. Satorre explained. 

For a more accurate estimate, Dr. Satorre suggests consulting directly with a dental professional because prices can differ based on the dentist's expertise and location, as well as your needs.

If you were to ask Dr. Satorre,  she believes veneers have become more popular as of late because they're a quick way to transform a smile with small effort. "People are drawn to them for instant results, especially with the rise of social media and celebrity influence showcasing perfect smiles." 

Dr. Satorre also noted the development in the procedure through time as one of the contributing factors that may have contributed to its newfound prevalence. "Advances in dental technology have also made them more natural-looking and durable, while their quick application and minimal recovery time make them convenient. They've become a top choice in recent years as cosmetic dentistry has become more accessible and desirable."

Despite the surge in veneers' fame as of late, there are still a couple of common misconceptions and reservations about them. These include some comments about how veneers appear to look like "horse teeth." To this, Dr. Satorre said, "It seems the patient's profile, as well as the dentist's skill and the lab's quality, weren't fully considered." Since this is a tough question, she commented, she recommends going to a "skilled cosmetic dentist or one with plenty of experience for the best results." 

Meanwhile, she also provided a list of common misconceptions about veneers that may impact people's decisions on whether or not to get them.

The pain of the procedure may be worrying for people with low pain tolerance, but Dr. Satorre has a rather comforting answer. "Many people fear that getting veneers is painful, but the procedure itself is quite manageable."

Leaving less room for overthinking, she added: "Local anesthetic is used to numb the area during the tooth preparation, so you won't feel any discomfort. The process is designed to be as painless as possible, with the only sensation being mild pressure while the dentist works on shaping the tooth."

Sooo.. still wondering if veneers are for you? Well, Dr. Satorre says that your dentist is the best person to answer this. "They'll assess your teeth to determine if veneers are the right option for you, ensuring a personalized and professional recommendation based on your oral health."

When asked if it's something she would recommend to a patient, Dr. Satorre said, "I'd suggest veneers for patients dealing with discolored or stained teeth, irregular shapes, enamel wear, or gaps between teeth (diastema). They're a great option to restore both the appearance and function of your smile, providing a more uniform look."

If you want to make your veneers last and look good as new, Dr. Satorre recommends maintaining good oral hygiene. And her tip remains simple: Brush and floss daily to keep teeth healthy. "Regular dental check-ups, ideally twice a year, are also essential for preventing issues." 

Meanwhile, Dr. Satorre also listed other ways to get cleaner and whiter teeth. "For cleaner teeth, it's essential to schedule an oral prophylaxis (professional teeth cleaning) every six months. This helps remove plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing can miss."

If whiter teeth are your concern and part of your glow-up wishlist, Dr. Satorre advises consulting your dentist about teeth whitening. "It's important to note that not everyone may be a good candidate, as some dental conditions might require different treatments." She left by saying, "Your dentist will assess your needs and recommend the best option for you." 

Those who are interested in reaching out to Dr. Steph Satorre, DMD, can reach out to their official Facebook page.