How long do veneers last? They are an excellent option for those looking to improve their smile dramatically. They cover a multitude of issues, such as gaps, cracks, discoloration, chips, decay, and even misaligned or worn down teeth. These covers create a durable, dazzling, natural looking smile. Depending on your situation and needs, veneers can replace your entire smile or one problem tooth.
Veneers, however, are not considered permanent because they will not last forever. How long they last will depend on several factors. For instance, how you care for them plays an important role in their longevity.
The biggest factors, however, are the quality of the porcelain and the experience of the dentist. A high quality dentist will only use high end porcelain veneers, which are known to last longer than cheaper options such as composite veneers. Our veneers can last 20 years or longer, whereas ones milled quickly in front of the patient may only last a few years. Learn more about veneers and why quality matters.
Why choose porcelain veneers if they won’t last forever?
The truth is, nothing is permanent. That includes cosmetic dentistry and it includes natural teeth. Have you looked at the cracks in your teeth? How do you prevent them from growing? It’s the same with artificial dentistry. The best thing we can do is take care of what we have. If you grind your teeth, wear a night guard. If you have bad oral habits, such as chewing ice, stop it!
Just like veneers, crowns and composite resin may need replacement at some point. Learn more about caring for the dental porcelain in your veneers and crowns. Dental crowns tend to last anywhere from 5-15 years. The average lifespan of bonding is 10 years. Teeth whitening is the shortest term option and requires frequent touch ups. Once your veneers are in place, it is up to you. Veneers also require much less removal of the natural tooth than crowns do.
How do I choose a cosmetic dentist?
The dentist you choose also affects how long your veneers will last. The strength and durability of your veneers depend on the process of application. Unless you opt for no-prep veneers, a tooth must be prepared before veneers are placed. This includes the removal of some of the natural teeth.
You won’t find prepless veneers at just any cosmetic dentist’s office. Dr Fondriest has teamed with Master Ceramist Matt Roberts, CDT, so that we could offer this highly advanced option to our patients. When placed by a trained dentist, this new porcelain, which is the most advanced option in the world, allows veneers to be much thinner while remaining durable and strong. Ultra thin veneers have great strength is done properly. Only a small amount of enamel is removed for these and temporary veneers are not needed.
Quality Matters
We utilize high end dental labs with expert ceramists to produce our minimally invasive veneers. The process our lab uses produces ceramic veneers that are highly durable and stain resistant. The technicians blend colors into the veneer in layers, which gives them a long lasting natural look.
This is a much improved option than the type milled in the dentist’s office. These veneers use a superficial surface stain to achieve the desired tooth color. Over time, the surface wears off, affecting the color and brightness.
How to Preserve Your Veneers
Veneers are more resistant to stains because they are less porous than tooth enamel. They are also highly durable. However, they are not impervious to damage and discoloration. For instance, biting down on hard items, like ice or nails, can break them. Also, while porcelain smile improvements resist stains, dark colored foods, and drinks can potentially stain the bonding material, especially if the tooth is not properly prepared. In addition, any natural teeth not covered with a veneer can stain, leaving you with teeth that don’t match.
Some suggestions for caring for your veneers include:
- Avoid drinks and food that can stain teeth, such as soda, coffee, and red wine.
- Be careful with what you eat. Chewing on ice and biting your nails can cause damage. Also, some foods can contain hidden materials that can damage them or weaken their bonding. Watch out for things like ribs, wings, and corn on the cobb.
- Don’t grind your teeth. If this is a habit for you, discuss this with Dr. Fondriest. The excess pressure of grinding can damage anything. You may need a mouthguard to protect your teeth while you sleep.
- Floss once and brush at least twice daily. Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum problems, which can cause recession. If your gums recede, the edges of your porcelain may become visible. Even worse, gum disease can lead to tooth loss. In addition, cavities can still occur with veneers, and fillings will affect the look of your smile.
- Avoid mouthwash with alcohol. The alcohol can deteriorate the bonding material. If you want to use mouthwash, be sure to use one without alcohol.
- Keep up with routine dental visits. Professional cleaning removes tartar, which brushing and flossing can’t do. Tartar increases your chances of gum issues and decay. Also, your dentist will perform a thorough oral exam to look for early signs of decay or gum disease.
- If you have dental veneers that are superficially stained (such as those milled in office), avoid abrasive toothpaste. This can wear off the staining, which changes the color and whiteness of your veneers.
If you are concerned about how long do veneers last, call us for more info
Do you think that you might be a good candidate for porcelain veneers? If you are looking for high quality, natural looking cosmetic work that will last, Dr. Fondriest can help. So, before you invest in your smile, you want to make sure you understand all the options and ways to care for your smile to keep it beautiful and long lasting. Even if you are not in the Chicago IL area, many patients travel long distances for exceptional care with us. Come find out why what makes us a world renowned boutique practice.
Both men and women are asking for this treatment. Come find out how you can improve your smile. Contact our boutique dental practice online or call (847) 234-0517 today for your best smile.
Dr. Fondriest is a highly sought after cosmetic dentist. He serves clients from throughout the United States