Dental veneers are able to address a number of different aesthetic issues with your smile. But are they a permanent solution? Here, our Winnipeg dentists explain the intention of these restorations as well as their longevity.
What are dental veneers?
Dental veneers are customized slivers of porcelain that are coloured to mimic teeth. They are bonded to the front of your teeth by your dentist with a resin cement in order to craft a surface that appears and feels similar to your natural teeth.
Veneers can help to change the perceived position, shape or colour of your teeth, leaving you with a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
How long do porcelain dental veneers last?
Porcelain veneers will likely need to be replaced at some point and are therefore not considered a permanent procedure. However, id properly cared for, porcelain veneers can last a significant length of time – usually for about 15 years on average. Depending on some key factors, they can last much longer (20 years or more).
After you have had your veneers placed by your dentist, it will be important for you to maintain excellent oral health and hygiene. This is because the longevity of your veneers can actually depend on how well they are cared for. Patients that maintain a good routine of oral hygiene and who brush and floss each day are more likely to see their veneers last longer than those who don't.
Longevity will also be impacted by whether any oral health problems are corrected. Bite problems, biting hard objects, grinding and clenching can put excessive pressure on your teeth, and therefore your veneers.
Why do porcelain veneers need to be replaced?
While porcelain is quite durable, veneers can chip, decay, depend or fracture over time. You may need to replace them if you experience health issues like gum recession as well, since this will make them appear to fit incorrectly.
Caring for dental veneers
Here are a few things you can do to make your veneers last as long as possible. As we mentioned above, maintaining good oral hygiene is the best way to make sure your veneers remain in good condition. This may include:
Wearing a mouthguard while playing contact sports
Trauma to the mouth (such as a run-in with another person or object) and cause dental veneers to fracture or fall off. This is why it’s important to wear a mouthguard to protect your restorations if you play contact sports.
Avoiding sticky, hard foods or using your teeth as tools
While your porcelain veneers will withstand everyday chewing and use, don't get into the habit of chewing on hard objects like ice or using them to rip open packages. These practices can increase your risk of chipping, breaking or loosening your restorations.
Attending your regular dental appointments
When you attend your regular dental examinations, you not only allow our dentists to have the opportunity to give your teeth a deep clean, but they will also take the time to check the condition of your veneers and treat any issues early before they have the chance to grow worse.
Practicing excellent oral hygiene
You know the drill - brush twice a day for two minutes each time, and floss at least once per day. Tooth decay is a common cause of failure of dental veneers.
Are porcelain veneers right for me?
Though dental veneers can be used to address several aesthetic concerns, they are not the right treatment for every dental health issue - or every person. In some cases, other restorations such as dental crowns, dental bonding, teeth whitening or orthodontics may be more effective treatment options.