Dental veneers are used either to protect the surface of the tooth from damage or to make the appearance of a tooth more aesthetically pleasing. People often get veneers to change the shape or color of their teeth.
Typically, how long do veneers last? That’s a difficult question to answer because everyone’s going to have different habits. The length of time that veneers last is dependent upon how the veneers are cared for; that again depends on the types of veneers we choose to use.
Types of Veneers and their lifespan
If we use composite veneers, the tooth-colored filling material, it will last anywhere from seven to ten years. Now, if you are in the habit of grinding teeth like crazy or using your teeth to open up a bag of chips, cutting thread or fishing line, then they are not going to last long. But, if you are taking good care of them, ensuring that you don’t get cavities underneath them, then they can last a little bit longer than ten years.
If we use the porcelain kind, they will typically last a little bit more, between the 10-20 year range. Again, considering how well each a patient is taking care of them, avoiding cavities underneath or any of your bad habits is what you want to avoid otherwise you might end up breaking them.
The composite veneer won’t last as long, but the porcelain one is a lot more durable and holds its color much better. Hence they will be replaced less often.
How to take care of dental veneers?
Just like regular teeth, veneers should be brushed and flossed a minimum of two times per day. Brushing and flossing reduce tooth decay. A veneer covers most of the surface area of a tooth but, some of the teeth will still be exposed to plaque and bacteria. People with veneers should avoid chewing on hard substances like ice. Also, dental night-guard should be used if a person with veneers tends to grind his or her teeth while sleeping.
Some things to know about veneers
- Veneers are not reversible: The teeth are stripped of enamel before a veneer is applied. If a veneer cracks or chips, it must be replaced.
- Veneers are stain-resistant: Veneers do not stain nor can they be whitened. You must replace veneers as they wear out, chip or break the tooth enamel.
Do getting veneers hurt?
Getting veneers can be mildly uncomfortable but should not be painful. After a veneer is placed it should feel like a regular tooth. Don’t put it off visiting a dentist and suffer agonizing, expensive, and potentially serious dental complications.
