Snap-on veneers (sometimes called pop-on veneers) have become popular online as a quick and inexpensive way to improve the appearance of front teeth. These removable plastic covers promise an instant smile transformation without dental visits or permanent treatment.
Shelby Township dentist Dr. Ban R. Barbat warns that these devices may cause significant oral health problems when used long-term. While they may appear to be a convenient cosmetic solution, snap-on veneers can increase the risk of gum disease, enamel damage, and TMJ complications.
What are Snap-On Veneers?
Snap-on veneers are removable shells that fit over existing teeth. Constructed of plastic rather than porcelain, they are available cheaply online and can be applied quickly. While they may show the possibilities of an improved smile, they remind me of the mail-order orthodontic aligners that seemed like such a good deal, yet turned out to create significant dental complications for many users. Learn more here.
Do Snap-On Veneers Damage Teeth?
Some hazards of pop-on veneers include their potential to promote oral bacterial growth, which can lead to gum disease. The space between the plastic covers and natural teeth can harbor bacterial growth. The accumulated oral bacteria can become inflammatory, causing the gums to become tender and bleed when brushing teeth. These are initial signs of periodontal disease, which is the leading cause of adult tooth loss.
Damage to the underlying tooth enamel is also a risk. Unlike the securely adhered method for porcelain veneers, the pop-on plastic is ‘fitted’ to teeth by a hot water soak, followed by placing it on the teeth. The plastic hardens but is not truly affixed to teeth. This allows movement and friction that can eventually wear down tooth enamel (and cause permanent damage).
Yet, the worst hazard is in how these appliances alter the bite and jaw joint positioning, which can aggravate existing TMJ conditions. Patients with a history of TMJ symptoms (such as grinding, clicking, or unstable occlusion) may experience worsening issues by wearing these appliances.
Dr. Barbat’s Thoughts
“I realize a ‘quick fix’ that’s readily available online seems like an appealing way to get a new smile,” Dr. Barbat states. “Because I also treat bite and jaw (TMJ) problems, I cringe, knowing what can occur down the road. DIY online fads such as these can lead to costly, permanent repercussions.”
In my practice, I see many patients who’ve endured months, years, and even decades of symptoms related to TMJ disorder. When the temporomandibular joints are stressed or strained, it can be related to bite misalignment. While frequent headaches and migraines can be associated with TMJ disorder, the problems can extend. Symptoms can include ear ringing, jaw joint soreness or popping, dizziness or vertigo, sore neck and shoulder muscles, and even tingling down the arms into the fingers. Without the bite in alignment, TMJ problems can lead to chipped or broken teeth as well as nighttime grinding or clenching.
Having a proper bite, carefully measured through advanced technology, can obviously affect many other aspects of oral and cranial health. However, it doesn’t take much to alter this delicate balance. Frequent users of oral appliances that are not professionally balanced and individually constructed put an individual at risk of these problems.
It’s easy to be intrigued by this inexpensive way to have a more appealing smile for a photo session or a brief social gathering. However, the process and investment of porcelain veneers is well worth it. In addition to the oral health benefits (and avoidance of possible costly damage in the future), the plastic material of snap-ons will stain and discolor easily. For those who consume coffee, tea, wine, and citrus juice, the discoloration can cause a “quick fix” to make a not-so-good impression.
“So I always think, what would I want done? … And I ask them what they’re looking for. And I make sure I know what their goals are.”
Dr. Ban R. Barbat
What Is the Best Alternative to Snap-On Veneers?
Porcelain is a durable, natural-looking material used in aesthetic dentistry. It resists staining well and has an opalescence like that of natural teeth. Users of pop-on veneers can quickly find that plastic fails to project a natural look.
You Deserve a Smile You Love
Why use something that looks fake and comes with so many risks? Your initial cosmetic consultation is complimentary. If diagnostic records, imaging, or other services are needed, we will review any associated fees with you before proceeding. During your consultation, you’ll learn the details of recommended treatment and the financing options available. Dr. Barbat offers a full array of cosmetic dentistry. In addition to porcelain veneers and crowns, she offers teeth whitening, bonding, and tooth replacement through dental implants, cosmetic partials, and crowns and bridges.
With professional care, you can have a smile you love and one that supports your oral health.
Schedule a Cosmetic Dentistry Consultation in Shelby Township
For a smile you’ll love, call 586-739-2155. Begin with a consultation with Dr. Ban Barbat.
The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
Dr. Ban R. Barbat is a general dentist. She has practiced dentistry since 1993 and has served Shelby Township since 1997.
