Updated: August 27, 2026
If you have ever considered cosmetic dentistry, you may have heard of porcelain veneers. Veneers are a popular way to improve your smile by giving it a more uniform look. Before you decide to get porcelain veneers, it’s essential to make an informed choice by weighing the pros and cons of this dental treatment.
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
If you decide to get porcelain veneers, your dentist in Winston-Salem will bond a thin shell of porcelain to the front side of your tooth. This veneer can fix a variety of cosmetic dental issues, including the following:
- Broken or chipped teeth
- Discolored teeth
- Misshapen teeth or gapped teeth
Pros and Cons of Porcelain Veneers
When it’s time for you to decide whether porcelain veneers are right for you, consider the following pros and cons:
Pros
- Natural-looking smile – Dental veneers match your other teeth, so they look and feel natural.
- Minimally invasive – To place your veneers, a fraction of a millimeter of enamel is removed. Because enamel does not grow back, veneers are considered a permanent investment. While enamel removal is minimal, local anesthesia is typically used to ensure your comfort during the preparation phase.
- Easy to maintain – Care for veneers involves daily brushing with non-abrasive toothpaste, flossing, regular cleanings, and using a nightguard if you grind your teeth.
Cons
- No color change – Porcelain is stain-resistant, meaning your veneers keep their original shade while adjacent natural teeth may darken over time. Teeth whitening prior to veneer placement is often recommended.
- Chips and cracks – Even though porcelain is a hard material, you can crack or chip your veneers if you aren’t careful about biting into hard objects or chewing your fingernails.
- More than one dental visit – You must go to the dentist for two visits to get porcelain veneers. The process generally requires two visits: the first to prepare the enamel, take digital impressions, and place temporaries; the second to fit and bond your custom porcelain shells.
Are You Looking for a Dentist in Winston-Salem, NC?
If you are interested in porcelain veneers in Winston-Salem or would like to learn more about our cosmetic dentistry offerings, we would be happy to speak with you! At Pryor Dental, we want you to love your smile. You can reach our dental office at (336) 765-7477 to schedule a consultation or an appointment.