How Long Do Veneers Last?
Choosing dental veneers for your smile transformation is an exciting step toward not only enhancing your appearance but also boosting your confidence. At Fort Washington Dental Associates, we’re committed to helping you understand and maximize the longevity of your veneers, ensuring they remain as vibrant and beautiful as the day they were placed. Veneers, known for their durability and resistance to staining, come in two primary materials: porcelain and composite. Porcelain veneers, celebrated for their strength and natural appearance, typically last between 10 to 15 years, while composite veneers have a slightly shorter lifespan, usually around 5 to 7 years. These estimates can vary based on individual care and lifestyle factors, underscoring the importance of maintenance for lasting brilliance.
But are veneers permanent? Yes, many people consider veneers permanent in the sense that you’ll need to keep up with care for your veneers forever. Since a small amount of tooth material is typically removed during the placement of your veneers, you’ll always need to keep your veneers in place.
Keep Up Your Oral Hygiene and Routine Care
In some ways, veneers are as susceptible to the same wear and tear as your natural teeth. In other ways, they’re more resilient than the rest of your smile. So, good veneer maintenance doesn’t stop at the veneer itself and really involves keeping great overall oral health and hygiene. Regular brushing, flossing, and the use of non-abrasive toothpaste are essential practices that extend the life of both porcelain and composite veneers. Additionally, routine dental check-ups allow for professional cleaning and the early detection of any oral health issues that could affect your veneers or how they match up to your overall smile, like discoloration of the veneers or surrounding natural teeth, or gum recession.
Be Mindful About Eating and Drinking
To maintain the sparkling appearance of your veneers, it’s wise to be mindful when consuming substances that could potentially stain. While porcelain veneers are non-porous and resistant to staining, your natural teeth are not, which could lead to your veneers appearing more white than the surrounding teeth in your smile. Taking care with highly pigmented foods and drinks can help keep your entire smile looking its best. Using a straw when drinking colored beverages can reduce the risk of discoloration of your surrounding teeth.
Be Proactive About Tooth Protection
Teeth aren’t invincible and veneers are no exception! Although veneers are made from strong and durable materials, they can still be damaged by trauma. If you’re playing a sport, consider wearing a mouth guard to avoid any potential blows to your veneers and natural teeth, which could cause chips or cracks. If you find that you grind your teeth, consider asking your dentist about a night guard. These oral appliances provide a protective barrier between your teeth, minimizing the risk of wear and tear caused by grinding or clenching.
Work With Your Dental Team to Maintain Veneer Brilliance
By understanding the expected longevity of your veneers, committing to thorough oral hygiene, and making mindful lifestyle choices, you’re investing in the sustained beauty of your smile. If you ever have concerns or notice changes in your veneers, the team at Fort Washington Dental Associates is here to assist. Together, we’ll ensure your smile remains radiant and your confidence high for years to come.
