Are you thinking of getting dental veneers to achieve a Hollywood-level smile? Dental veneers are a perfect cosmetic solution to conceal small imperfections or flaws that hinder your smile’s appearance.
In recent decades, the popularity of veneers has increased due to their ultra-thin design and aesthetic appeal. Although they are made from high-quality, durable materials, dental veneers have a limited lifespan.
Our expert dentists share useful tips for maintaining dental veneers and prolonging their lifetime.
What Are Dental Veneers?
Veneers are thin laminates that cover the front surface of your teeth to enhance your smile aesthetics. They cover up minor dental flaws and add symmetry to your natural teeth.
Veneers are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. They are a good option if you have the following:
- Chipped teeth
- Broken teeth
- Tooth discoloration
- Gaps between teeth
- Slight misalignment
- Irregular shape or size of teeth
What Are The Common Types of Veneers?
With advancements in cosmetic dentistry, dental veneers are available with many modifications. However, the two most common types are:
- Porcelain veneers
- Composite veneers
Our dentist will select the best type of dental veneers for your teeth based on your case, affordability, and availability. We will discuss the basic characteristics of each type, along with their average lifespan.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are the most preferred type of dental veneers. They are thin and resemble the exact shade of your natural teeth. Additionally, porcelain veneers also have slight translucency that offers a more life-like appearance.
Porcelain veneers require minimal preparation in which a thin layer of enamel is removed. Typically, porcelain veneers can last for 10 to 20 years with proper maintenance. However, certain factors may reduce their lifespan, such as:
- Biting on hard objects
- Habit of grinding teeth (bruxism)
- Dental issues of the underlying teeth
- Gum diseases
- Nail biting or other practices that may damage teeth
Composite Veneers
Composite veneers are more convenient and affordable than porcelain veneers, because they do not require tooth preparation. Our dentist will use a chairside technique to bond composite veneers to your teeth within a single appointment.
Despite their benefits, composite veneers are not as durable as porcelain veneers. They have a short lifespan and may last for 5 to 7 years.
Another drawback of composite veneers is that they stain like natural tooth enamel. If you eat or drink pigmented products, you may notice your composite veneers getting discolored over the years.
How to Make Dental Veneers Last Longer?
The longevity of dental veneers depends on oral hygiene and some other factors. Following these guidelines, you can prolong the lifespan of dental veneers:
- Maintain a proper oral care routine. Brush your teeth regularly and floss once a day, giving special attention to the area between veneers.
- Reduce the consumption of tea, coffee, red wine, and other products that may cause discoloration.
- Do not use your teeth as utensils for opening something, such as a jar lid or bottle cap.
- Wear a protective mouth-guard before engaging in contact sports.
- If you have habits like nail biting or teeth grinding, mention it beforehand to our dentist.
If you wish to rejuvenate your smile with dental veneers, visit Champions Dental or call us at (281) 866-0442 to book an appointment.