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In a society that has become increasingly online and more focused on aesthetics than ever, dangerous trends can often emerge. The latest to grace the pages of social media? “Veneer check.” On its face, it sounds like a reason to smile, but dentists have been sounding the alarm for a while. But what is “veneer check” and why is it so dangerous, especially for young people? Read on to learn more.
Understanding Veneers and Dental Crowns
To understand the veneer check trend, you first need to learn about two similar (but very different) dental procedures:
- Veneers: These are thin shells of porcelain that are shaped and bonded to the front surface of your teeth. It’s a cosmetic treatment that is used to cover multiple dental imperfections at once. The process begins by removing a very small amount of enamel from the front of each tooth. Then the veneer is bonded over it.
- Dental Crowns: In contrast, dental crowns are a restorative procedure used to protect damaged teeth. When decay or trauma becomes too great for a filling, dentists will remove the decayed portion of the tooth. Afterward, the tooth is shaped and fitted with a porcelain “cap” that blends perfectly into your smile.
What Is the “Veneer Check” Trend?
The social media generation is more obsessed with appearances than any that came before. So, when given the chance, few who are absorbed in the space can turn down a chance to show off. In the “veneer check” challenge, participants show before and after footage of their smiles, newly enhanced with veneers. The only problem is that many who are flashing their pearly whites in the challenge are actually sporting dental crowns.
Why “Veneer Check” Is Dangerous
As mentioned before, dental crowns are typically used to protect weak teeth after treating large cavities or performing root canal treatment. They are not meant to replace an entire set of teeth. However, some people are filing their teeth down on purpose to receive dental crown treatment. Over time, this may lead to:
- Compromised Teeth: Removing large portions of otherwise healthy teeth severely weakens them, possibly leading to breakage, infection, and tooth loss.
- Repeated Restorations: As the years progress, each crown will need to be repeatedly replaced due to the stresses of biting and chewing. This not only puts added stress on your teeth but will also cost a fortune over a lifetime.
- Early Need for Dentures: Many dentists estimate that drastic changes like those seen in the “veneer check” challenge could result in patients needing dentures by the age of 40. For reference, the average age for dentures is currently around 50 to 64.
The allure of a flawless smile in the age of social media can sometimes lead to dangerous trends like the “veneer check” challenge. While veneers and dental crowns offer cosmetic and restorative benefits, misusing these procedures can have serious consequences. For your own safety, always consult a professional dentist when considering modifications to your already beautiful smile.
About the Practice
Dr. Toufeek Dabah and Dr. Shaista Hasan are talented and passionate dental experts with extensive experience in cosmetic treatments. They enjoy getting to know their patients and building customized treatment plans to help them realize their dream smiles. Call (847) 882-8387 to schedule a dental veneer consultation at The Smile Standard or visit the website to discover other services they offer.