Dental veneers offer patients a quick, non-invasive way to enhance their smiles. Commonly made of porcelain, they are durable, resistant to stains, and blend beautifully with surrounding teeth. It is no surprise that many seek veneers as an alternative to other cosmetic treatments when whitening treatments aren’t giving them the results they desire or cosmetic imperfections need to be hidden.
Not only do veneers provide great results, but they can last a long time, too. Let’s take a closer look at dental veneers, how long they last, and what you can do to get the most from them.
What Are Dental Veneers?
Using thin shells, veneers can transform smiles so that they can hide cosmetic blemishes, including teeth that are:
- Stained and discolored
- Chipped or fractured
- Misshapen or too small
Dental veneers also work well to hide gaps between teeth.
A thin layer of the tooth’s surface is shaved down and the veneer is bonded to the tooth — only on the front, visible side. This will be a custom-designed shell that will fit just right, blending well with other teeth in size, color, shape, and so forth.
The Lifespan of Dental Veneers
How long a dental veneer will last will depend on the material it is made of. After all, there are different types of veneers and they do not all last the same amount of time.
Porcelain veneers. Porcelain veneers are the cream of the crop. They are the longest-lasting veneer and are highly pleasing when it comes to aesthetics. You can expect these veneers to last, on average, about 15 years or longer.
Composite veneers. Composite veneers are also quite popular as they are a more affordable option. They are highly effective and will look great, but they are prone to staining over time and don’t typically last as long as porcelain. The average lifespan of these composite shells is about 5 to 10 years.
Instant veneers. These prefab resin veneers are the least natural as they are not customized for each patient. Many dentists do not even recommend them. However, should you be interested, you can expect instant veneers to last between 3 and 5 years.
How to Make Your Dental Veneers Last Longer
The better you care for your dental veneers, the longer they will last — regardless of the type of material they are made from. This means it is very important to maintain good oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth at least twice every day and flossing once at vital steps, as well as visiting your dentist for a routine cleaning and exam every 6 months. Not only will this boost your oral health, but it will allow any issues to be handled promptly.
Caring for your dental veneer by not putting them at risk is another way you can ensure they last longer. A few ways you can do this is:
- Wear a guard when playing sports or engaging in other activities that may put your teeth at risk.
- If you suffer from bruxism, wearing a mouthguard is essential to protect both your teeth and your veneers.
- Do not use your teeth for opening bottles, biting nails or pen caps, and the like. Get rid of this habit.
- Avoid hard foods, including ice, as these could damage your veneers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do dental veneers ruin your teeth?
No, dental veneers do not ruin your teeth. Both the veneers themselves as well as the bonding used to secure them are safe for natural teeth.
How much do dental veneers cost?
The cost of dental veneers varies. It is based on what type of veneers you are getting, how many, your chosen dentist, etc. It is best to make an appointment with your dentist to find out whether dental veneers are a good fit for your needs and how much they will cost.
Interested in Dental Veneers?
Are you interested in transforming your smile with dental veneers? Minolo & Vijay, DDS PC has extensive experience in placing perfectly-matched veneers that will cover any blemish. The result? A smile you can feel good about.
Learn more today! Contact us at 212-888-4140 to schedule an appointment.