Did you know that 57 percent of Americans cover their mouths when they laugh because they're insecure about their teeth? Does this sound like you? If so, porcelain veneers may help you to feel more confident in your smile.
Not sure what veneers are or what benefits they have to offer? Read on to learn more, including 9 ways this cosmetic treatment can change your life for the better.
What Are Veneers?
Veneers are thin porcelain covers that are permanently attached to your natural teeth. This is a cosmetic dentistry procedure that can be used to address gaps and overlaps, as well as discolored and misshapen teeth. 
The use of veneers dates all the way back to 1928. They were pioneered by a dentist named Charles Pincus. Hollywood studio executives reached out to Pincus for help improving the appearance of actors' teeth.
At the time, the procedure was temporary, and actors could take off their smiles when they were done for the day. They've come a long way since then, though, and are now a permanent dental procedure.
What Porcelain Veneers Can Do for You
Are you still on the fence about veneers? Before you make a final decision, consider the following ways that they can improve your smile and your life as a whole:
1. Correct Cosmetic Issues Instantly
Porcelain veneers can correct a variety of cosmetic issues. If you have chipped or cracked teeth, for example, veneers cover them up. The same goes for gaps between the teeth and teeth that are crooked.
Sure, you could get braces or go through other procedures to address these problems. The difference, though, is that veneers offer a quick fix. For those who don't want to wait months or even years to enhance their smile, veneers are a much more efficient solution.
2. Increase Confidence
You can't beat the confidence that comes from having straight, pearly white teeth.
Do you want to be able to smile with your teeth? Do you want to throw your head back and laugh with abandon, without holding your hand over your mouth?
Veneers can give you the courage you need to do these things anytime, anywhere.
3. Natural Appearance
Some people are hesitant about cosmetic dentistry procedures like veneers. They might want to improve their smile and address some stains or crookedness. However, they also don't want the changes to be so drastic that everyone knows they had work done.
Are you in this situation right now? The good news is that veneers don't have to be dramatically different from your natural teeth. You can work with your dentist to come up with a solution that enhances your current smile without totally transforming your entire appearance.
4. Durable, Long-Lasting Results
Veneers last a long time. In fact, as long as you take good care of them, they're a permanent solution to all of your cosmetic-related dental issues. 
Porcelain veneers are as strong as your natural tooth enamel. Because they're so strong, you don't have to treat them with kid gloves once you've completed your treatment. You can eat and drink whatever you want (within reason, of course) without worrying about cracking your teeth or causing other types of damage.
5. Low Maintenance
You do need to care for veneers if you want them to last. Luckily, though, they are a fairly low maintenance cosmetic dentistry solution.
After you've taken a few days to get used to them, your veneers will feel just like your natural teeth. You can also treat them like your natural teeth (brush them twice per day, floss them, etc.) and feel confident that they'll stick around for a long time.
6. Minimally Invasive Procedure
The porcelain veneer application process is fairly simple and minimally invasive.
The veneer process starts with your dentist removing about 1/2 a millimeter of the front surface of your teeth. This is far less than what they'd remove if you were having another treatment, such as a crown.
Once they've shaved down the surface of the tooth, they'll apply the veneer overlays using a special type of cement. They'll make small adjustments throughout the process, too, to ensure your teeth look and feel as natural as possible.
Most people report little-to-no discomfort during this procedure. It goes by very fast, too, so you'll be able to enjoy your new smile before you know it.
7. Permanent Tooth Whitening
Are you unhappy with the color of your teeth? Do you want to avoid spending a ton of time and money on regular whitening treatments?
Not only do veneers address issues like gaps or crookedness, but they also correct stains or discoloration.
Veneers offer a permanent teeth whitening solution. They'll retain their white color long-term, and you won't have to worry about staining them as long as you're keeping up with basic maintenance (brushing, flossing, etc.).
8. Address Enamel Loss
Are you struggling with enamel loss from acid reflux disease, excessive brushing, or general wear and tear? Are your teeth extra sensitive because of it? If so, veneers can be a great solution.
Veneers provide an extra level of protection for your teeth. That way, when you eat or drink hot or cold things, you won't have to worry about sensitivity or discomfort. 
9. Return on Investment
Compared to some other cosmetic treatments, veneers provide a great return on your investment. After all, they last a long time and they require very little upkeep outside of basic dental hygiene. 
Are you looking for a cosmetic procedure that will enhance your smile and won't require a lot of additional time or money to maintain? If so, veneers are a great solution for you. 
Are Dental Veneers Right for You?
Now that you know more about porcelain veneers, are you ready for a new and improved smile? Are you eager to experience all the benefits veneers have to offer, from increased confidence to permanent teeth whitening?
If you want to learn more about getting dental veneers, our team at Curtis R. Crouch DDS is here for you. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment.