How Long Will Veneers Last? A Cosmetic Dentist Weighs In

Dental Veneers
Did you know that porcelain veneers were actually created by a dentist in Hollywood around 90 years ago? They were a way to temporarily cover the smile imperfections of actors and actresses while they were shooting scenes and could be taken off at the end of the day. Over the years, dentists wanted to make veneers a more semi-permanent solution and developed techniques and materials to make that possible. But although veneers last a relatively long time, they still don’t last forever. If you’ve been thinking of getting veneers from a cosmetic dentist in Valparaiso, keep reading to find out how long they typically last and how you can maintain them for as long as possible!

How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?

First, it’s helpful to start by explaining how veneers work. Veneers are thin “shells” of tooth-colored material that cover the entire front surface of the teeth. This gives them a whole new appearance and can completely mask many types of imperfections, such as:

Chips
Cracks
Small gaps and minor crowding
Severe stains
Small or oddly shaped teeth

In particular, porcelain is a great material for veneers because it not only resists staining, but it’s also very strong. However, just like natural teeth are subject to wear-and-tear, porcelain veneers can be damaged as well.

With that said, the strength and durability of porcelain mean that your veneers can last an average of 10-20 years with the right care and maintenance!

How Can You Make Your Porcelain Veneers Last as Long as Possible?

Here are some tips for extending the life of your porcelain veneers and making sure they continue to look fantastic:

Get regular checkups – Regular dental care is important so that any potential problems with your veneers can be caught and treated as early as possible.
Maintain good oral hygiene – Veneers have adhered to the natural tooth structure underneath, which must stay clean and healthy to help the veneer last. Floss once each day and brush at least twice using a soft-bristled brush and non-abrasive toothpaste such as gel formula (avoid whitening toothpaste that can scratch and dull veneers).
Chew carefully – Be sure to cut hard foods such as apples into pieces rather than biting directly into them. And avoid chewing on things like ice or pens.
Protect against clenching and grinding – Wear a nightguard to protect your veneers from chipping from clenching and grinding forces.

Unfortunately, all dental work has to be replaced eventually. But sticking to these guidelines will help you enjoy your porcelain veneers for as long as possible!