The Durability of Veneers
There is a reason why dentists love veneers: They offer flexible and affordable solutions for numerous dental problems. In fact, this one treatment can address issues like:
- Chipped, cracked, broken, or worn teeth
- Gapped or misshapen teeth
- Staining and discoloration
However, just because veneers can provide immediate results, they won't last forever. Instead, several things come into play when it comes to their durability and lifespan.
Our team at The Dental Touch in Oakland, California, provides the latest solutions in a family-friendly atmosphere. They shared these insights into getting the longest-lasting results from this veneers.
Choose wisely
What sets veneers apart from other dental solutions is how they conceal a problem by covering it up with a very thin, toothlike shell. However, different materials are used to create veneers, and they each provide different results.
Porcelain veneers
Most veneers come in porcelain. This material provides an ultrathin and translucent effect, which creates a natural and realistic appearance when you smile. They also offer durability, lasting up to 10 years or more, and, according to one research study, even up to 20!
Composite veneers
You can also get veneers produced from composite materials. This option usually comes with a lower-priced tag and still looks great. However, they typically don&'t last as long as porcelain. Instead, they only provide results for five years or more.
Practice good oral hygiene
One appealing aspect of veneers is the fact that they don't require special care. But, if you want them to last, you still have to practice good oral hygiene.
To help your veneers last, we recommend:
- Brushing twice and flossing once each day
- Scheduling regular dental checkups and cleanings
- Wearing a mouthguard or other protective device if you grind your teeth at night
If you're unsure about whether you grind your teeth or have other sleep disturbances, our team provides' at-home bruxism and sleep monitoring to identify potential problems.
Protect your teeth
Have you used your teeth on a stubborn knot or to open a package? How often do you chew on ice, pens, or hard candy? They may not seem serious, but these actions can seriously damage your natural teeth. And, if you have veneers, using your teeth in this way can shorten their lifetime, too.
Instead, protect your teeth by avoiding these activities, especially if you have veneers. Similarly, take extra steps to keep your teeth safe by wearing a protective device like a mouthguard in situations that can put them at risk, like playing contact sports.
Plan for a lifelong commitment
When you choose veneers, you can instantly transform one tooth or your entire smile- it's that easy. However, to provide a comfortable fit, your dentist has to remove a tiny amount of enamel from the visible portion of your tooth.
Removing enamel ensures that the veneer doesn't add unwanted bulk to your tooth. But enamel also protects your tooth from decay. So, without this layer of protection, the tooth becomes susceptible to discoloration, sensitivity, and deterioration.
As a result, choosing veneers means a lifelong commitment because they require replacement if they become damaged or deteriorate, regardless of their age.
Are you curious to see if dental veneers are right for you? Contact The Dental Touch to schedule a consultation by calling 510-658-0110 or& booking online today.
