Are you struggling with chipped or stained teeth but are reluctant to undergo anything invasive? Veneers can help you! They are wafer-thin shells of porcelain or composite that are placed on the front surface of your teeth to make them look better and uniform. But are they permanent? Do you need to get them replaced? Let’s take a look at how long veneers last in general.
As mentioned earlier, dental veneers are thin, fragile shells that are permanently fixed to the front of your teeth to conceal the deformities. The material chosen is usually porcelain or resin-composite because they look and feel exactly like real teeth.
The life of veneers depends on several factors; however, it generally lasts between 10 to 15 years. Porcelain veneers are found to be more durable compared to composite ones, offering a longer lifespan. But with proper care, any type can be maximized. All you need to cater is a consistent oral hygiene regime, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups.
Moreover, it is crucial to be careful of habits that can exert excessive force on your teeth, like bruxism or nail biting. These habits exert excessive stress on veneers, leading to them chipping or breaking.
Ideally, veneers are made to last for 10 to 15 years; however, they do eventually need replacement. Here are some common signs to look for:
Although veneers show resistance to staining, they may get discolored with every passing day. If you notice a sudden change in the color of your veneers, take it as a sign of replacement.
Veneers are durable but can chip or crack because of accidents or biting on hard objects. If you experience damage to your veneers, get it checked by your dentist immediately and start the replacement protocol.
When you see more of your tooth than usual, it is a marker of the need to get veneers changed, since they negatively affect the appearance of your smile. In such a scenario, veneer replacement is necessary to maintain the uniformity and aesthetics.
Biting on hard objects can loosen your veneer or make them wobbly. If that is the case, immediately take it as a clear sign of replacement. A loose veneer induces discomfort and increases the risk of damage to the tooth structure beneath it.
Over time, changes in your bite can affect the fit of your veneers. If you notice that your veneers no longer fit or have started to affect your bite, it is time to consult your dentist for an evaluation.
There are times when the cement used for bonding the veneer on the tooth surface darkens. This change becomes noticeable at the gumline, making your smile appear less bright.
In a nutshell, you can expect veneers to last for 10 to 15 years in general; however, the actual span varies according to individuals. By combining an oral hygiene regime with a safe lifestyle that avoids harmful habits, you can significantly increase the chances of your veneers functioning for an extended period. However, if you have more concerns, get in touch with our specialist at Riverside Family Dental for help and treatments we have to offer you. Give us a call at (586) 468-0983 to schedule an appointment.
