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Dental veneers are a commonly used cosmetic procedure that helps to enhance your smile. And the boost of confidence they bring can even be life-changing.
But just how long will veneers last? And what can you do to keep them for as long as possible? Let’s talk about it.
What are Veneers?
Veneers are thin shells that are bonded to the front of your teeth. They give a new appearance to each tooth they cover – mostly placed on visible teeth. Although it depends on the type used, dental veneers are almost always custom-made. This allows them to blend beautifully with the rest of the teeth, matching in color, shape, size, and contour.
Veneers can be used to correct many different cosmetic issues, including:
- Gaps
- Stains or discolorations
- Chips
- Oddly-shaped tooth
- Crooked teeth
- Misaligned teeth
Due to their strength and durability, those who have invested in dental veneers find that they are highly functional and don’t feel any different than a natural tooth.
Types of Veneers
There are different types of veneers available – and the benefits you receive will depend greatly on the type you choose. Below are three of the most popular dental veneer options.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain gets the golden star when used for dental veneers. They are customized for the patient and look incredibly natural. Plus, they are strong, highly durable, and long-lasting.
Composite Veneers
Composite veneers are made of composite resin. They, too, are customized for each patient based on color, tooth size, and shape. The downfall of composite resin is that it can be susceptible to staining over time.
Instant Veneers
Instant veneers are not custom designed, but they do come in a lot of shapes and sizes so finding something that works is quite easy. They are quick and are often able to be placed in one office visit. Unfortunately, instant veneers are not viewed as durable or high-quality.
How Long Do Veneers Last?
On average, you can expect veneers to last between 10 and 20 years. The better the quality of the veneer, the longer you can expect them to last. More specifically, porcelain veneers are the longest-lasting dental veneers, followed by composite, and then instant veneers.
Extend the Longevity of Your Veneers
When you make an investment in dental veneers, you want to ensure that they last as long as possible. There are a few steps you can take to make this possible.
- Maintain good oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth at least twice per day and flossing at least once can keep bacteria at bay and your oral health as good as possible. Making sure you visit the dentist every 6 months is another way to be proactive in your oral health – and help extend the life of your veneers.
- Treat bruxism. If you often grind and/or clench your teeth, consider using a mouthguard to reduce the damage to your teeth – especially your veneers. Your dentist will be able to provide you with the right solution.
- Treat your teeth well. Do not use your teeth as tools to open bottles or bite your nails. The more you protect them, the longer your veneers will last.
Dunedin Dental Associates is your hometown dental practice. They provide general dentistry, restorative dentistry, and dental implants, allowing them to provide their customers with the highest quality care for their teeth.
