Veneers, a popular dental cosmetic enhancement, are thin, yet durable facings that are a great option for those looking to restore natural beauty to their smile. When decay, chips, cracks, severe enamel stains, or uneven bite are present, these porcelain shells can quickly change your aesthetics, so you receive the beautiful smile you desire.
Although veneers are made to last, they are not indestructible. Damaging them can also happen quickly if you’re not careful. The answer to how long they will last depends significantly on how well you care for them. By considering how your daily habits could be affecting your veneers, you will be able to extend their resilience for many years.
How Some Habits Can Shorten the Life of Your Veneers
The harmful habits that can potentially damage your natural teeth should also be avoided after receiving veneer treatment. The porcelain shells can chip and crack just as natural teeth, so biting down on hard foods such as ice or inedible items can result in a damaged surface. Veneers are also capable of staining, so consider limiting your daily coffee, wine, or tea drinking.
For the most part, porcelain veneers are sturdy and designed to last anywhere from 10 to 15 years with proper care. Depending on the type of wear and tear they endure, veneers may require cosmetic repair of even, full replacement. It is up to you to help protect them in order to increase their lifespan.
Helping Your Veneers Last
Veneers can be a significant investment in your dental health and aesthetics, so do all you can to ensure you get the most out of your porcelain shells.
Here are some ways to properly care for your veneers:
• Implement and follow a strong oral hygiene routine. Cleaning your mouth is an essential part of avoiding stains caused by oral bacteria and plaque buildup, as well as helping keep your teeth healthy. Brush and floss twice a day as well as visit your dental professional every six months to help maintain long-lasting oral health.
• Wear mouth guards, especially during heavy athletic activities. Impacts to the face can easily result in cracked or chipped veneers, just as natural teeth.
• Address teeth grinding. Bruxism, especially when you’re considering veneer treatment must be treated first. Allowing teeth grinding to go unchecked will cause damage and prevent your veneers from not lasting as long as they should.
Veneers could be the best method to achieve the smile you desire, but they still need proper care. Using them as an excuse to skip out on basic oral hygiene could mean expensive repairs or surfaces that show wear long before their time.
Experienced and friendly dentist, Dr. Alan B. Coleman believes every patient should have the radiant smile they deserve. At our Beaumont practice, we offer comprehensive porcelain veneers treatment to provide beautiful, more uniform smiles for patients throughout the community. Call us today for your initial consultation!