Dental veneers are an effective solution for many cosmetic issues, but how long can they really last? Our Straight Smile dentists in Langley are here to tell you about the longevity of dental veneers.
What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are thin, custom-made slivers of tooth-coloured porcelain that your dentist bonds to the front of your teeth. They are bonded to your teeth with composite resin cement, creating a surface that looks and feels much like natural teeth do.
Veneers can help change the look of your teeth such as the position, shape and colour. Ideally, leaving you with a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
How Long Can Dental Veneers Actually Last?
Porcelain veneers will likely need to be replaced at some point and are therefore not considered a permanent procedure. However, id properly cared for, porcelain veneers can last a significant length of time – usually for about 15 years on average. Depending on some key factors, they can last much longer (20 years or more).
Once your dental veneers have been placed by your dentist, it will immediately become important for you to maintain them with excellent oral hygiene. How long your veneers last ultimately comes down to how well you take care of your veneers. Patients who are diligent with their oral hygiene routine at home and who make the effort to visit the dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups are more likely to have veneers that last a long time.
Longevity will also be impacted by whether any oral health problems are corrected. Bite problems, biting hard objects, grinding and clenching can put excessive pressure on your teeth, and therefore your veneers.
When & Why Veneers May Need To Be Replaced
Despite the fact that porcelain is very durable, your thin porcelain veneers are susceptible to chipping, fractures, decay and debonding over time. You may also need to have them replaced in the event of gum recession as this can affect the fit of the veneer.
Taking Care Of Your Dental Veneers
There are a few things you can do to make your veneers last as long as possible. As mentioned, continuing an excellent oral health care practices is the best way to ensure your veneers stay in great condition. This can include:
Wearing a mouthguard while playing contact sports
Trauma to the mouth (such as a run-in with another person or object) and cause dental veneers to fracture or fall off. This is why it’s important to wear a mouthguard to protect your restorations if you play contact sports.
Avoiding sticky, hard foods or using your teeth as tools
Your dental veneers should have no issue with everyday wear and tear from chewing, but you'll want to avoid chewing on ice or using your teeth to rip apart packages as this can lead to an increased risk of chipping or breaking your veneers.
Attending your regular dental appointments
When you attend your regular dental exams, you not only allow your dentist the opportunity to give your teeth an essential deep clean, but they will also take the time to check the condition of your veneers and treat any problems early before they have a chance to fully develop.
Practicing excellent oral hygiene
Brush your teeth twice a day for 2 minutes each time, and floss every day to protect your veneers from decay as it is a common reason that veneers need to be replaced.
How To Tell If Veneers Are Right For You
Though dental veneers can be used to address several aesthetic concerns, they are not the right treatment for every dental health issue - or every person. In some cases, other restorations such as dental crowns, dental bonding, teeth whitening or orthodontics may be more effective treatment options.