The average amount of time veneers last is 10 years, but with proper care, you can get them to last a lot longer. Many patients got veneers 20 years ago and they still look amazing. New porcelain materials and proper care make all the difference. Caring for veneers is very easy, and doesn’t require any special equipment or pastes. Regular brushing and flossing and keeping your dentist appointments so you get professional cleaning is all it takes.
Veneers are a type of cosmetic dentistry that is meant to improve your smile and make your teeth look more even and healthier. They are perfect for correcting crooked teeth, teeth that have been chipped, or teeth that are stained to the point they cannot be whitened.
You may wonder how long do veneers last? For most people, your veneers will not cause any gum disease or irritation. Once they are installed, they can last for 10 years or more, up to 30 years. But, with proper care, you might even get your veneers to last for life.
What are veneers made of?
Dental veneers are very thin and usually are made of porcelain glued to the front of your teeth. These thin shells or covers are made to match your natural teeth, down to the color.
Modern dental porcelain has been made to be almost as strong or equal to your natural enamel, so they are built to be durable. And, with good oral health habits, your veneers and teeth will last for life.
There are also composite resin veneers. These composite veneers are more likely to stain than porcelain ones. Your cosmetic dentist can advise you on which material to choose. If all you need is just a light cover and you are looking for a budget-friendly veneer, then resin might be the one for you. But, if you have more significant dental issues you are looking to resolve with veneers, go with the porcelain.
What is involved with getting veneers?
Your cosmetic dentist will give you an exam and ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy. This will involve checking for tooth decay and even doing a root canal treatment if necessary. Your teeth will also be cleaned so that they are completely ready to get veneers. Your dentist will then measure your teeth and take an impression to perfectly make your veneers at the lab. That way every set of veneers is custom made for the wearer and his or her needs.
Your best orthodontist will also remove a small amount of the dental enamel to rough up the surface and get it ready to have the veneers affixed. If you have crooked teeth, there may be a bit more of the tooth removed to help with the correction. Then a mild acid is applied to etch the teeth so that the adhesive will be strong.
The veneers adhere to just the front of the teeth, which is why they are perfect for front teeth, but they can be used on any or all of your teeth. If you have to have a couple of dental procedures done to have your veneers affixed, you will go home from your first appointment with a temporary set of veneers.
You can always ask your orthodontist near me for his or her Invisalign before and after photos, so you can get an idea of what your smile might look like when the process is all done.
What are the disadvantages of veneers?
Veneers can fall off, though this is rare. This is usually caused by:
- An impact on the teeth or face
- Grinding your teeth
- Tooth decay that occurs under the veneers
- Gum recession may mean you need root canals done
- Chewing ice cubes or hard candies
- Eating sticky foods like taffy
An impact to or grinding your teeth can lead to the adhesive weakening and allowing the porcelain veneers to come off.
Because they are thin porcelain that covers the front of your tooth, they can break or chip. And, they are not inexpensive. Many insurance companies provide little to no coverage for them unless they are medically necessary. Before you begin the process, you should check with your insurance company.
Note – Veneers are not reversible. Once you have the tooth enamel shaved down, there is no turning back.
How should I care for veneers?
Much of what it takes to make your veneers last is up to you. If your veneers do come off or break, you should reach out to your dentist right away so he or she can make sure your underlying teeth are ok. If you can retrieve your veneers, you should do so and put them in a container to protect them. If the veneers are not damaged, your dentist may be able to put the same ones back on. Otherwise, he or she will need to order a new set and give you temporary ones in the meantime. You should not try to glue it back on yourself. Your dentist will likely be able to make the repair in a day or two.
- You should also be aware that like your natural teeth, veneers can get stained, especially resin veneers. Drinks like red wine, coffee, and tea, and foods like dark berries can stain them, so brush and floss your teeth every day and rinse after drinking staining foods and drinks to remove a lot of the tannins that lead to the staining.
- Brushing and flossing will help keep your teeth from decaying also, and that will keep your teeth strong so your veneers will have a strong platform. Be sure you visit your dentist every six months for a checkup and professional cleaning. Most people who have veneers and care for their teeth will find that they do not have any higher rate of decay when compared to people without them.
- If you participate in sports you should wear a mouth guard to protect your teeth in case you get hit in the mouth.
- If you need to open a package or cut a thread, reach for the scissors instead of trying to use your teeth. Your natural teeth will also thank you.
- For people who grind their teeth at night, a condition is known as bruxism, they should try some relaxation techniques and maybe get a mouthguard. Your dentist may prescribe one for you, or you can find one at your local drug store.
When it comes to answering the question of how long do veneers last, rest assured, your veneers are built to last, but they also require some care. They are an investment that provides big payouts when you smile, so you want to protect them by being careful with them and keeping them clean. Veneers are great for helping people who have crooked teeth or teeth that are broken or stained, and once they are affixed to your teeth, give you a great smile for 30 years or more.
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IVANOV Orthodontic Experts, 12866 Biscayne Blvd, North Miami, FL 33181
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Call us at (786) 540-1919 to schedule a free orthodontic exam.
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