Getting dental veneers is a desirable cosmetic procedure for many people, as veneers can dramatically change the appearance of your smile in just two to three dental visits. But how long do veneers last? In this article, we answer this question and give tips on how to prolong the longevity of your veneers.
How Long Do Veneers Last?
There are two main types of dental veneers: resin composite veneers and porcelain veneers. Resin composite veneers can last for 5 to 7 years, while porcelain veneers typically last between 10 and 15 years. Also, porcelain veneers are more stain-resistant than resin composite veneers and can maintain their initial appearance longer.
Signs that you should replace your veneers include:
- Visible damage, such as cracks or chips, is a sign that you need to replace your veneers as soon as possible. When the integrity of a veneer is disturbed, bacteria and food residue can find access to the tooth underneath. Since dentists remove enamel from the tooth before placing veneers, the tooth is especially vulnerable to bacteria.
- Loose or detached veneers also require immediate attention, as the condition allows bacteria to access the tooth.
- Discoloration of your veneers might signify that a broken sealant or decaying tooth underneath. Another reason for discoloration is just the old age of your veneers and the buildup of plaque, tartar, and food residue.
- Gaps between your veneers and the gum and exposed roots of the teeth might signify gum recession due to gum disease.
- Changes in the fit or alignment that cause discomfort
How To Make Your Veneers Last Longer
Regardless of whether your veneers are made of porcelain or resin composite, proper care is key to making them last as long as possible. Here are several essential tips for effective veneer care:
Prioritize Your Oral Hygiene
Brushing and flossing your teeth effectively twice a day will prevent plaque and tartar buildup on your veneers and natural teeth. As a result, you will enjoy the original appearance of your veneers for longer and have healthy teeth underneath the veneers as well.
Choose Correct Products
It is not advisable to use toothpaste containing abrasive ingredients (soda, charcoal, etc.) when cleaning veneers. Such ingredients can scratch their surface. The minor scratches might not be visible to the naked eye, but food residue, bacteria, and plaque can accumulate in them, making veneers look stained or discolored.
Also, it is not a good idea to use whitening products on your veneers, as they are designed for the natural enamel, which is more porous than porcelain or resin composite. Instead, we recommend consulting your cosmetic dentist if you notice that your veneers are not as white as they used to be.
Choose What You Eat with Care
Staining foods and drinks, such as red wine, black coffee, tea, berries, soda, beetroot, etc., can significantly spoil the appearance of your veneers, especially when it comes to resin composite veneers. Thus, we recommend avoiding staining foods and beverages and brushing your teeth right after the meal if you consume any of them. Even though porcelain veneers are relatively stain-resistant, the same dietary rules apply to them.
In addition, we recommend avoiding hard and crunchy foods, foods that require a lot of biting force, and sticky foods, as they can displace or scratch your veneers.
Fix Harmful Habits
Such habits as biting your nails, chewing on hard objects (for example, pencils and pens), or using your teeth as tools can lead to your veneers wearing out faster or cracking and breaking. Also, bruxism, which is involuntary jaw clenching and teeth grinding, can damage veneers and your natural teeth. If you notice signs of bruxism, seek professional help to combat the habit and wear a mouthguard at night to prevent teeth grinding.
Prevent Physical Damage
Veneers can be cracked or chipped due to oral or facial trauma. That is why it is important to wear a mouthguard if you engage in high-risk activities, such as contact or extreme sports. A custom-made mouthguard is comfortable to wear and can effectively absorb the force from an impact on the face, protecting not only your veneers but also your natural teeth, gums, and jawbone.
Get Stunning Veneers at Baseline Dental
Do not hesitate to make an appointment with an experienced cosmetic dentist at Baseline Dental today. In just a couple of dental visits, we will provide you with stunning veneers that can not only make your teeth appear whiter but also fix minor alignment issues, uneven teeth size, and even a “gummy” smile. We look forward to your visit.
