With veneers, you can completely transform your smile with just one treatment. But before you commit to getting them, you need to understand how long you can expect them to last. Like any type of dental restoration, veneers have finite lifespans and will eventually need to be replaced. But when exactly will that be? And is there anything you can do to help your cosmetic dental work last longer? Here’s what you need to know when it comes to the longevity of veneers.
What Exactly are Veneers?
Veneers are thin sheaths that are made to be attached to the fronts of your teeth. They can potentially be made out of composite resin or porcelain, and they can be carefully shaded to blend in with the rest of your smile. By covering your teeth with veneers, your dentist can correct multiple aesthetic imperfections at once (such as stubborn stains or minor dental damage) in a way that looks natural.
How Long Do Veneers Last?
The longevity of veneers is influenced by the material that they’re made of. Composite veneers often last for about 4 to 8 years. In comparison, porcelain veneers tend to be more durable; they have average lifespans of about 10 to 15 years, but they can potentially last even longer than that.
With that being said, the biggest factor that determines how long veneers last is the care they receive. If you’re proactive about maintaining your veneers and protecting them from damage, you can expect them to last for a long time before you eventually need to get new ones.
How Can You Help Your Veneers Last Longer?
If you want to keep your current veneers for as long as possible, try following these simple steps:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush that won’t scratch your veneers. This will help keep the teeth covered by the restorations free of decay.
- Stay away from overly hard foods that could potentially damage your veneers.
- Do not tear open packages with your teeth, as doing so can easily weaken your veneers over time and eventually cause them to break.
- If you grind your teeth while you’re asleep, get a nightguard. This will help keep your veneers safe from unnecessary damage while you slumber.
- Keep up with your biannual dental checkups and cleanings. During these visits, your dentist can make sure that your veneers are still in good condition and take note of any problems that might be developing.
In short, veneers can be an excellent long-lasting solution for the aesthetic issues with your smile that have been bothering you. As long as you take good care of your veneers, you can look forward to keeping them for many years to come.
About the Author
Dr. Keith Lisonbee went to the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine for his dental degree. He has completed a number of advanced courses through Spear Education, and he belongs to a number of professional organizations, including the Florida Dental Association. He’s proud to be able to help patients enhance their smiles with lifelike, long-lasting veneers. If you would like to learn more about the options for cosmetic dentistry that Dr. Lisonbee offers at Patriot Dental in Pensacola, visit his website or call (850) 477-1120.