If you are planning to get dental veneers, you may wonder if they are a long-term solution. Dental veneers have been a well-known cosmetic treatment for the past few decades. Due to their thin design and natural-looking design, they require minimal to no preparation. Veneers are made from durable materials, and they may last for many years with proper care. However, as with most things, dental veneers cannot last a lifetime and will eventually need to be renewed. Want to learn how to make your veneers last longer? Read this article to learn some helpful tips about maintaining dental veneers.
What Are Veneers?
Dental veneers are thin laminates made from porcelain or composite that cover the frontal surface of your teeth. The basic purpose of veneers is to conceal minor dental flaws such as chipped teeth, tooth discoloration, gaps between teeth, etc.
Over the passage of time, your enamel (outer protective layer of teeth) becomes stained or worn out, losing its lustrous appearance. With dental veneers, you can achieve a cosmetically appealing smile that will last for years to come. Veneers can be made in a wide range of shades, lengths, and widths to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
How Long Does Porcelain Veneer Last?
Porcelain veneers are very popular due to their life-like appearance and durability. They require minimal preparation, which involves removing a thin slice of your enamel. Once porcelain veneers are bonded permanently with your teeth, they last for 15 to 20 years with proper care. But since it is an artificial material and cannot replicate the exact strength of your natural teeth, it may need future replacement. The following factors can influence the longevity of porcelain veneers:
- Strong biting forces can cause sudden breakage or fracture of porcelain veneers.
- Like natural teeth, veneers can also undergo wear and tear with daily use.
- If the underlying teeth or adjacent ones develop dental caries, we will need to remove dental veneers until the problem is addressed.
- Gum recession, malocclusion, and other dental issues may also reduce the lifetime of dental veneers.
How Long Do Composite Veneers Last?
Composite veneers are a conservative option as they do not need tooth preparation. These veneers are placed in a single dental visit and bonded directly over the surface of your teeth. Although composite veneers are strong, they are not as durable and resistant to staining as porcelain veneers. With regular maintenance of oral hygiene, composite veneers can last for 7 to 10 years.
Composite resin has the ability to absorb stains, just like tooth enamel. Due to this reason, you may notice a slight yellowish tinge on composite veneers if you drink coffee or tea frequently. Avoiding pigmented food and drinks is crucial to maintain the white, shiny look of composite veneers.
Tips for Maintaining Dental Veneers
- Brush and floss regularly to maintain good oral hygiene, as it is the most important factor.
- Wear a mouth guard before participating in sports or athletic activities.
- Limit the intake of pigmented foods and beverages such as coffee, tea, red wine, berries, turmeric, etc., as they may cause discoloration.
- Avoid biting on hard objects, such as opening a bottle cap with teeth.
- If you have bruxism (grinding teeth during sleep), mention it to us before getting veneers so that we can strategize a better treatment plan.
Make the most of your visit at AT Dental Care and learn more about dental veneers. Call us at (408) 579-9931 for further information or to book an appointment.