How Long Do Veneers Last?

A popular option in cosmetic dentistry is dental veneers. These simple porcelain dental modifications can vastly improve the appearance of your smile, but they don’t typically last forever. It’s best to learn a little about how veneers work, so you can take care of them and maximise their longevity.

What is a veneer?

Dental veneers are thin pieces of porcelain that are custom made for your teeth. They are permanently attached to the front of each tooth, so they look and feel completely natural. You can get just one or a whole mouthful, but many people will at least get their top row covered with porcelain veneers, as that’s what you see most when you smile and talk. The benefits of veneers are largely cosmetic. They can hide discoloured, misshapen, gapped, or small teeth, and instead offer the appearance of a full mouth of perfectly white, well-shaped teeth. They are attached to your existing teeth with a permanent dental adhesive, so you do not remove them like you would with dentures.

How long do veneers last?

Porcelain veneers can last for approximately 15-20 years, or even longer in some cases. One of the main factors in how long porcelain veneers last is whether your natural teeth were well prepared before the veneers were attached. That’s why it’s so important to see an expert in cosmetic dentistry for this treatment, such as Naenae Dental. Over time, the bond between your veneers and your natural teeth can weaken and eventually break. It’s also possible for your veneers to chip and crack like your real teeth would. When veneers do eventually break or fall off, you can of course have them replaced to look good as new again. If they are still in good condition, they can sometimes simply be reattached.

How can you make your veneers last longer?

The good news is that you can take steps to maintain your veneers and help to ensure they last for as long as possible. The first thing is to attend regular dental check-ups. This way, your dentist can regularly check your overall oral health and the condition of your veneers. For example, one common reason why veneers fail is teeth grinding. By visiting your dentist, they may be able to spot the signs of bruxism (teeth grinding) early, and provide a custom nightguard to help protect your teeth and veneers from grinding as you sleep. Additionally, simple good oral hygiene at home can make a world of difference. You will need to brush and floss your veneers just like you would with your natural teeth, which can help to avoid the build-up of plaque, and the occurrence of issues such as tooth decay that could lead to the veneers falling off. It is also best to avoid chewing on ice or hard sweets, and avoid eating chewy lollies. These can both lead to the veneers weakening and falling off early.

Getting veneers at Naenae Dental

If you’re looking for ways to improve the appearance of your smile, don’t hesitate to ask your dentist about your options with porcelain veneers. They offer a fantastic, efficient, and non-invasive way to enjoy a bright white smile that lasts for many years to come. Talk to our friendly team about a smile makeover by booking an appointment at Naenae Dental today.