Dental veneers are a fantastic way of improving the appearance of your smile. They’re an increasingly popular way of treating cosmetic defects in discolored, fractured, or damaged teeth. But as with any cosmetic dentistry option, they have to deal with the rough environment in a human mouth, sustaining wear throughout their lifetime. Naturally, the question is, how long do veneers last?
This post will discuss how veneers work and how long they can last. We’ll also talk about how to make sure your dental veneers last as long as possible.
How Do Veneers Work?
Dental veneers are wafer-thin shells that attach to the front surface of your teeth. They’re custom manufactured to meet the exact specifications of your teeth, matching the surrounding teeth and suiting the shape and contour of your smile.
A dentist examines and approves a dental veneer procedure. They take impressions and may take x-rays to make sure they get the shape of your mouth and teeth right. Then, the dentist takes off some material from the tooth surface to allow room for the veneer. Then, a dental laboratory begins shaping and making your veneers.
Once they’re complete, a dentist will bond the veneers to the front of your teeth using a special, dentally compatible adhesive. The color and shade you choose are carefully matched.
However, the process is irreversible. Once the veneers are in place, they’re on for good.
How Long Do Veneers Last?
How long veneers last is directly related to their composite material. Veneers come in porcelain and composite resin varieties. However, there are also “no-prep” versions available, which do not require resurfacing of the tooth and need less preparation.
Porcelain veneers are more expensive than composite ones but are far more durable and can last over a decade or more if cared for properly. They also have a natural, translucent shimmer that resembles the aesthetic quality of tooth enamel and are more resistant to chipping and staining.
Composite veneers are less expensive, but also less durable and more prone to staining. However, they are easier to apply than porcelain, and installation can often happen within one appointment, as they’re easier to fabricate at the dentist’s office. They can last from 5 to 7 years.
Tips For Ensuring Longevity
You can follow some basic guidelines to maintain your veneers and keep them in good condition.
- Avoid chewing on food with your front teeth. Instead, try to use your rear teeth as much as possible.
- Don’t use your teeth as tools. This means not to use them to tear or open things like duct tape or packaging.
- Don’t chew on objects that are particularly firm or hard. Avoid biting your nails and chewing on pens, for example.
- Alter your diet to exclude staining or acidic foods, such as tea, coffee, or strong condiments.
- Don’t use tobacco products, which are notorious for staining teeth.
- Brush and floss your teeth regularly using the appropriate oral hygiene implements.
Conclusion
Through proper care, you can ensure that your veneers last as long as possible and give you an excellent smile that you can wear for many years to come. Of course, make sure to ask your dental provider about how to best care for your veneers. They will be able to make recommendations and give you advice based on your individual needs.
Mission Bend Family Dentistry specializes in creating healthy smiles for the entire family. We provide superior dental veneer options that we can apply with comfort and convenience through our expertise and gentle care. For any questions or to schedule a consultation, call us at (832) 895-5110.
We’d love to see you and help you achieve a smile to be proud of.