Veneers are a cosmetic dental enhancement for your teeth. They can cover stains, chips, uneven lengths, and other imperfections to transform your smile. Veneers can be made of porcelain or composite material that is designed to look like natural tooth enamel.
If you’re considering getting veneers, you probably have some questions about them before making a decision. One common question is: how long do veneers last? Here’s what you can expect regarding the lifespan of veneers.
What Are Veneers?
Veneers are thin, shell-like covers for your teeth. They attach to the front side of the teeth and wrap slightly around the sides. Veneers are different from crowns because they don’t cover the whole tooth, just the front side. Each veneer is a separate piece that attaches to each tooth individually. A thin layer of enamel is removed from the teeth first before attaching the veneers. Once your teeth have been fitted with veneers, they are permanent. They can only be removed by your dentist and replaced with new veneers.
Types of Veneers
Veneers are made of two types of material:
- Porcelain. Dental porcelain is a specific type of ceramic that is created in a lab to be strong and resemble natural tooth enamel. Porcelain veneers are considered to be the highest quality type.
- Composite resin. Composite resin veneers are made of a material that is similar to what is used for cavity fillings. It is colored to match your natural teeth, however it does not create the same realistic appearance as porcelain.
Average Lifespan of Veneers
A typical set of porcelain veneers will last between 10 and 15 years. They may last 20 years or longer with excellent care. How long veneers last also depends on the material they are made of. Composite veneers may only last 4 to 8 years because the material is not as strong, making them more susceptible to wearing down, chipping, and staining.
How to Get the Most Life Out of Your Veneers
To help you veneers last as long as possible, there are some steps you can take:
- Brush your veneers and teeth at least twice a day.
- Floss between all of your veneers and teeth at least once a day.
- Avoid biting hard foods and chewing ice.
- Try to avoid biting your nails.
- Don’t open containers or packages with your teeth/veneers.
- Use a non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching the surface of your veneers.
- Go to the dentist for regular cleanings and exams every 6 months. This keeps your veneers clean and allows your dentist to look for signs of wear.
- Wear a custom mouthguard to protect your veneers, especially if you know that you grind your teeth.
Am I a Good Candidate for Veneers?
To be an ideal candidate for veneers, your teeth and gums must be generally healthy with only cosmetic imperfections. If you have decay or gum disease, those must be treated first before veneers are applied. Veneers are only effective if the teeth they are attached to are able to remain in place in your mouth. Severe decay and gum disease could lead to loss of teeth, which would require complete tooth replacement.
Benefits of Veneers from Gold Coast Smiles
Quality veneers can last for many years, providing a natural smile you can feel confident about. At Gold Coast Smiles we provide top of the line porcelain veneers that are stain and chip resistant. Our veneers are carefully crafted to resemble and enhance your natural teeth so that you look like yourself, only a better version.
Are you ready to enhance your smile with veneers? Call 516-676-0250 today to schedule a consultation or request an appointment.