Is it a bad idea to get a full set of veneers at 21? (photo)

Question

I am thinking about getting my top 10 and top bottom teeth veneered. They're not BAD, but I'm uncomfortable with the size. I have already gotten them lengthened by shaving down my gums. My mom has worked for a dentist for 30 years and she told me that I'll ruin my teeth and have to have root canals in all of them and my veneers will fall out. I think she's just trying to talk me out of having a cosmetic procedure. My right front tooth broke off as a child and is bonded on. What do you think?

Lance Timmerman, DMD, MAGD · Answer

When people (even dentists) say veneers lead to root canals and destroying teeth, it usually means they only have experience with dentists that don't know how to DO porcelain veneers very well.  Poorly done veneers CAN lead to all of that, but well done veneers can last a VERY long time with NO adverse effects.I would suggest "pre prosthetic braces" to line the teeth up before the veneers.  You MIGHT like the result enough to stop there.  If not, minimally invasive veneers (perhaps even NO prep) can be done to give the proper size, shape, and color you desire.

At your age, plan to redo them at LEAST once, maybe twice, in your lifetime due to simple wear and tear (nothing lasts forever).  I have replaced veneers that were in service for 25 years and only got changed to improve color.  No root canals, no loss of teeth.

Doug Jopling, DDS · Answer

Please see a dentist or orthodontist first to consult on orthodontic care. You appear to have nice, natural, healthy teeth that simply need to be aligned.  This could easily be done with Invisalign within just a few months.  Your teeth would remain completely in their natural state, just a better version without anything artificial bonded to them.  Your lower teeth would still be crocked even if you did veneers on the uppers.  Orthodontics will correct both the upper and lower teeth.

Anna M. Berik, DMD · Answer

Step one is to align your teeth. This is powerful in terms of cosmetics but it also sets up a beautiful conservative veneer case. Beautiful veneers are not possible on teeth with bad bites, called malocclusions. It is a poor choice to do veneers in severe crowding cases without first straightening the teeth. In my office I do accelerated orthodontics coupled with Invisalign.  On average I can straighten the teeth and correct the bite in 3-4 months.  Then I would re-evaluate your smile and see how veneers could help.  This method is conservative, will create a beautiful smile and last a long time.

Kourosh Maddahi, DDS · Answer

Hi:You can definitely improve your smile with veneers, however if they are healthy and aesthetically ok my advice is to wait.  Most likely at such a young age you will have to redo your veneers at some point again. Normally the patients I have done veneers on at such a young age were mostly in the entertainment industry and their teeth were a hinderence to getting a casting or a job.Best,Dr. Maddahi

Vicki Borowski, DDS · Answer

I agree with the other dentist. I think you should start with orthodontics. Move your teeth into a more ideal position. When your braces are finished if you still need more length you may be a candidate for a minimal prep type of veneer. You are young and will require multiple sets of veneers. If your teeth are ideally positioned you may need fewer more conservative veneers.

Is it a bad idea to get a full set of veneers at 21? (photo)

Answers (9)

Answer: Veneer, appropriate age

Answer: Veneer, appropriate age

Answer: Veneers at 21

Answer: Veneers at 21

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Everything you need to know about Porcelain Veneers

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Is it a bad idea to get a full set of veneers at 21? (photo)

Answers (9)

Answer: Veneer, appropriate age

Answer: Veneer, appropriate age

Answer: Veneers at 21

Answer: Veneers at 21

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Porcelain Veneers

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.