Are your teeth chipped, cracked, or discolored? Or, are there gaps between your teeth that you’d like to fill in?
If so, you may be a good candidate for dental veneers. This cosmetic dentistry treatment conceals flaws that may otherwise negatively impact your smile.
That said, before undergoing any form of dental treatment, you may have questions. For example, perhaps you’re wondering how long veneers last.
Various factors can influence just how long veneers stay in good condition. What’s most important to understand is that proper maintenance and regular dental care play key roles in extending the lifespan of your veneers.
What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are thin shells that mimic the appearance of healthy teeth. A cosmetic dentist can bond these shells over the front of real teeth to hide gaps, discoloration, chips, and other such flaws.
White porcelain is the most common material from which veneers are made. This is because it tends to closely resemble the color and general appearance of a real tooth.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Veneers?
Reasons to conceal dental flaws with veneers include the following:
- Easy treatment: The process of applying veneers to teeth is relatively simple compared to other cosmetic dentistry procedures.
- Versatility: A cosmetic dentist may offer veneers to address a fairly wide range of issues.
- Guarding against stains: Dental veneers quickly improve a patient’s smile. Because the material from which they’re made is stain-resistant, the effects of veneers can remain consistent for a long time.
- Custom designs: The right veneers for one patient may not be the right shape or size for another. As such, veneers are custom-designed to suit your needs.
Veneers are also relatively easy to maintain. Through regular brushing, flossing, and appointments with your dentist, you can keep your veneers in good condition for a reasonably long time.
What You Need to Know About the Lifespan of Veneers
Veneers typically last for about 10 to 15 years when patients stay on top of upkeep and regularly see their dentists. Additional factors that may influence how long your veneers last include:
- Teeth grinding: Grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw can wear down your veneers over time. If you’re prone to teeth grinding, particularly at night, you may wear a protective device to limit damage to your veneers. You should also refrain from such habits as biting your nails, chewing on pen caps, etc.
- Material: Porcelain is a common choice for veneers not only because it resembles natural teeth, but also because it’s fairly durable. Although veneers may be made from other materials, those materials might not last as long.
- Other dental issues: Some dental and oral health issues can potentially affect the lifespan of your veneers. For example, your veneers might not last as long as expected if your gums recede or the position of your teeth shifts.
It’s also important that veneers be applied properly. This highlights the value of choosing a qualified dentist to provide this treatment. When veneers are applied with care, they are more likely to remain in great condition for years to come. Discuss this treatment option with your dentist to learn more about whether it’s right for you.
Talk to a Cosmetic Dentist Today
Do you wish to learn more about this treatment option? If so, our team at Advanced Dental Group, with locations in Brooklyn, NY and Pomona, NY, is prepared to help you better understand if veneers are right for you. Contact us online or call our Pomona office (845-364-9400) or Brooklyn office (718-376-1666) to schedule an appointment today.