07 Nov Understanding Dental Veneers: How Long Do Veneers Last?
If you’ve considered cosmetic dentistry, you’ve probably wondered about veneers. More specifically, you want to know how long veneers last before deciding. With so many celebrities getting them for perfect smiles, it might seem like the ideal solution for gaps, damaged teeth, severe stains, and more. But veneers aren’t permanent. And there’s more to know.
Material Matters
There are three main options for veneers – porcelain, composite, and no-prep. Composite uses a resin that doesn’t usually last as long as other materials. No-prep may not last as long either and isn’t recommended for those with more severe dental issues, especially stains or damage. For these reasons, most dentists suggest porcelain varieties to their patients. Porcelain materials tend to have the longest life with proper care, hide a wide variety of issues, and match your natural teeth the best.
How Long Can Your Veneers Last?
While everything depends on how you care for your veneers, the average porcelain variety lasts approximately ten years, though another study found they may last as long as 20 years. Since some enamel is removed from your tooth to place the veneer, you will need to have them replaced as they wear out over time. Your dentist will check yours each visit to see how well they’re holding up.
The greatest benefit of veneers is preventing any current damage to a tooth from worsening. But, of course, it’s still susceptible to plaque, bacteria, and cavities, just like any other tooth. So, proper oral hygiene is still important.
Extending the Life of Your Veneers
Veneers are an excellent investment in your smile, and by following a few simple rules, they could last you well over a decade.
Most importantly, continue to brush and floss regularly. This isn’t just critical for maintaining your veneers but also your surrounding teeth. Additionally, visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and to check the health and durability of the materials.
Keep your veneers in great condition by not grinding your teeth. While durable, they aren’t indestructible. Grinding your teeth removes the surface of a veneer just like a natural tooth. If you have trouble with this, ask your dentist about a mouth guard to wear while sleeping. Then, during the day, be mindful of your teeth until you’re able to break the grinding habit.
Don’t use your teeth to open products either, such as bags, plastic shell packs, or twist-off caps. Non-edible materials aren’t good for your teeth, especially not veneers. Also, skip out on biting down on hard foods, such as ice or candy.
Want to find out if veneer-based solutions are right for you? Learn more about our porcelain veneers, and feel free to ask us any questions about how they can improve your smile!