Self improvement can come in all sorts of packages and processes, but none is as easy and instantaneous as improving your smile. Here are five facts about veneers to consider before taking the plunge:

You do not need to buy a full set

Composite veneers are fingernail-shaped shells that are installed to the front of your teeth to improve appearance, repair damage, and increase confidence. Many people go ahead and apply a full set for an all-around improved smile, but if you are needing veneers just to hide crooked or damaged teeth, many patients buy only what they need. This can improve cost and give you the option to go full mouth later when finances are more secure.

It lasts a while

While it isn’t permanent, veneers last a long time. Composite veneers last on average 5 to 7 years and are reversible. Dentists need not alter your actual teeth to install the composite veneers. Porcelain offers much stronger durability with a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. Veneers aren’t an excuse to get out of good oral hygiene. To make the most of them, follow the regular care routine as your dentist prescribed for natural teeth.

They are customized

We all know smiling is important for better health, and no smile is better than your own. Veneers aren’t a one-size-fits-all product. Your dentist puts on his artist hat and applies veneers to your mouth in such a way that is natural and pleasing to see. Composite veneers can be done in one day, often applied layer by layer and polished to create a natural smile without discoloration. Porcelain veneers are a bit more complex in process as they have to be made separately but the outcome is often argued to be more natural and beautiful. Of course, this is reflected in the price.

They aren’t invincible

Teeth are jewels, not tools. The same goes for veneers. Excess use or misuse can damage your veneers. If you are a teeth grinder, use a guard at night to protect your teeth. You’ll also want to avoid eating too hard of foods such as extra crunchy, uncooked carrots or sunflower seeds. A veneer may simply come off, known as debonding, as a result of age and the wearing out of the bonding solution. This is an easy fix in the dentist office. However, a chipped or broken veneer may be a more extensive process to repair as a new one will need to be made. Just like natural teeth, special care is required to keep them working for you long-term.

They are stain resistant

Teeth whitening is a big business with explored dangers. Veneers can give you peace of mind with their stain resistance. Composite veneers are more resistant than natural teeth, but again, not invincible. Porcelain veneers, on the other hand, offer great protection against staining and yellowing in appearance. Again, you can find that in the price difference between the two materials used to restore your smile. You can’t whiten your veneers at home, but you can whiten the natural teeth you chose not to cover. This can lead to uneven tone in your overall smile so keep that in consideration when deciding if veneers are right for you.

Veneers are a great way to improve your smile without the pain and headache of other dental procedures. These five tips will help you make the right decision for you and your teeth.