Veneers are one of the most transformative cosmetic dental treatments that exist today. Whether you want to address chipped, stained, worn-down, or mildly misaligned teeth, porcelain veneers can significantly improve the appearance of your smile. If you are considering veneers, you may be wondering if they are a long-lasting or permanent solution. In this comprehensive blog, we will provide an overview and explore the longevity of porcelain veneers.
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An Overview of Dental Veneers
Porcelain veneers are strong, wafer-thin, custom-made ceramic shells placed over teeth to improve their appearance. Composite veneers are made from tooth-colored resin sculpted to look like natural teeth. Both options can treat the following dental concerns:
- Chipped teeth
- Misaligned teeth
- Worn down teeth
- Gapped teeth
- Irregularly shaped or uneven teeth
- Permanently stained teeth that don’t respond to whitening
Composite resin veneers cost less than porcelain but don’t last as long and require more frequent replacement or touch-ups.
Porcelain veneers are more popular because of their durability, stain resistance, and natural, light-reflecting properties. However, the process involves altering your natural teeth to some extent.
How Are Porcelain Veneers Applied?
The application of porcelain veneers is a multi-step process that usually takes two visits to complete.
- Preparation: To ensure the veneers have a natural look and feel, your dentist will remove a small amount of enamel from the front surface of each tooth that will receive veneers. This step is necessary to make room for the veneers so that they blend well with natural teeth and to ensure a secure bond.
- Dental Impressions: After your teeth are prepped, your dentist will take an impression or mold, which will be used to create custom porcelain veneers that fit perfectly. The dental impressions are then sent to a lab where professional dental technicians create your veneers.
- Temporary Veneers: In some cases, temporary veneers are placed while you wait for your permanent restorations. These protect your prepped teeth and provide an aesthetic covering.
- Bonding: Once your veneers are ready, your dentist will place them on the front surfaces of your teeth. Adjustments may be made to ensure the veneers blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. When you and your dentist are happy with their fit, the veneers are permanently bonded to your teeth using a special adhesive and light-curing technology.
How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?
Porcelain veneers are long-lasting and durable, but they don’t last forever. The lifespan of veneers largely depends on several factors, including the material used, your oral hygiene habits, and any potential trauma to your teeth.
Porcelain veneers typically last 10–15 years, but with vigilant care, they can last 20 years or more.
Why Aren’t Veneers Permanent?
There are a few reasons why veneers aren’t considered a permanent solution:
Wear and Tear
Over time, veneers can wear down or become damaged from biting, chewing, and everyday use. While composite resin veneers are more likely to become damaged, porcelain veneers can still chip or crack, especially with teeth-grinding or when chewing on non-food items.
Gum Recession
Over time, some patients may experience gum recession due to gum disease, which can expose the edges of the veneers, making them look less natural. If this happens, additional dental work may be required to maintain the appearance of your smile.
How Can I Make Porcelain Veneers Last as Long as Possible?
While not permanent, there are steps you can take to extend the lifespan of your veneers and keep them looking great for over one or two decades or, in some cases, even more. Here are five tips to maintain your veneers and make them last as long as possible:
- Oral Hygiene Habits: Brushing your teeth twice per day using a non-abrasive toothpaste and flossing every day prevents plaque buildup around your veneers. Veneers are resistant to decay, but the underlying teeth can still develop cavities, so it’s essential to keep them clean.
- Don’t Bite Hard Objects: While strong and durable, porcelain veneers can become damaged, just like natural teeth. Don’t use your teeth as tools to open packages and bottles or bite down on hard objects like ice, fingernails, or pens.
- Wear a Mouthguard: Grinding your teeth puts excess pressure on your veneers and causes them to wear down or break. Wearing a custom-fitted mouthguard while you sleep can protect your veneers and extend their lifespan.
- Limit Staining Foods and Drinks: Porcelain veneers are highly resistant to stains, but chronic consumption of coffee, tea, red wine, and berries may cause them to become dull. Consider using a straw if drinking beverages that tend to stain.
- Dental Checkups: Attend your regularly scheduled cleanings and checkups. Your dentist can monitor the condition of your veneers and address any issues before they become major problems.
Porcelain Veneers vs. Other Cosmetic Dental Solutions
If you’re considering veneers, you may also be considering other cosmetic dental options. Veneers are a versatile solution for many dental imperfections but may not be the best choice for everyone. Here’s how they compare to some other treatments:
Professional Teeth Whitening
If your main concern is tooth discoloration then professional teeth whitening is less expensive and may be a better option. If you have discolored teeth, having them professionally whitened before receiving veneers allows you to color-match them to your brighter teeth.
Dental Bonding
Composite veneers are a cheaper and less invasive option but not as durable. Bonding is used for small repairs and may need to be touched up or replaced more frequently than veneers.
Crowns
Dental crowns are a better option for teeth that are too unhealthy to accommodate porcelain veneers, as they cover the entire tooth and provide full protection. Porcelain crowns can often be used in full mouth restoration.
Are Porcelain Veneers Right for You?
Porcelain veneers aren’t permanent, but they are one of the longest-lasting and most effective cosmetic dental treatments available today. They can transform your smile and boost your self-esteem. By knowing their limitations and properly taking care of them, you can have veneers for many years. If you’re considering porcelain veneers, be sure to consult with a cosmetic dentist to see if they are right for you.
Interested in Porcelain Veneers in Beverly Hills, CA?
Dr. Kevin Sands, our Beverly Hills dentist to the stars, offers the highest-quality porcelain veneers in the Los Angeles, CA, area. You can see Dr. Sands’ before and after photos of his outstanding work with porcelain veneers.
For more information or to schedule your Beverly Hills porcelain veneers consultation, call 310.273.0111 or fill out our online contact form today and begin the process to achieve a stunning smile.