You can tackle a range of aesthetic problems with dental veneers. Today our Whitehorse dentists talk about the purpose of dental veneers, the elements that impact their longevity and whether or not they are a permanent solution.
What are dental veneers?
Dental veneers are custom-made thin slivers of tooth-coloured porcelain that your dentist bonds to the front of your teeth with composite resin cement. This creates a surface that looks and feels identical to your natural teeth.
Veneers are able to help change the perceived shape, colour and position of your teeth, which leaves you with a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
How long do porcelain dental veneers last?
Porcelain veneers are not considered a permanent procedure because they probably have to be replaced at some time. Although, if they are properly cared for, your porcelain veneers could last an average of 15 years. And depending on some key factors, they can last even longer (20 years or more).
Once your veneers are applied, it becomes more important than ever to maintain an excellent oral care routine because the longevity of your veneers depends on how well you care for them. Patients that keep up good oral hygiene routines (brushing and flossing daily) at home and who visit the dentist on a regular basis for professional dental exams and cleanings are more likely to see their veneers last longer.
Longevity will also be impacted by whether any oral health problems are corrected. Bite problems, biting hard objects, grinding and clenching can put excessive pressure on your teeth, and therefore your veneers.
Why do porcelain veneers need to be replaced?
Though porcelain is very durable, porcelain veneers can chip, fracture, decay or debond over time. You may also need to replace them if you experience gum recession, as this may cause the veneer to not fit correctly anymore.
Caring for dental veneers
There are a several things you can do to make your veneers last as long as possible. As mentioned, maintaining excellent oral health care routines is the best way to make sure your veneers stay in great condition. This can include:
Wearing a mouthguard while playing contact sports
Trauma to the mouth (such as a run-in with another person or object) and cause dental veneers to fracture or fall off. This is why it’s important to wear a mouthguard to protect your restorations if you play contact sports.
Avoiding sticky, hard foods or using your teeth as tools
While your dental veneers will stand up to everyday chewing, don’t get into the habit of chewing ice or using them to rip open packages, because this increases the risk of chipping, loosening or breaking them.
Attending your regular dental appointments
By attending your regular dental exams, you aren't just giving your dentist the opportunity to give your teeth an essential deep clean, but it also lets them take the time to check the condition of your veneers and treat any problems early before they have a chance to fully develop.
Practicing excellent oral hygiene
Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes every time, and floss at least once a day. Tooth decay is a common reason for dental veneer failure.
Are porcelain veneers right for me?
Even though dental veneers can be used to address a hand full of aesthetic concerns, they are not the right treatment for every dental health conditions or for every person. sometimes, other restorations including dental crowns, dental bonding, teeth whitening or orthodontics may be more effective treatment options.