How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?
If you are looking to dramatically rejuvenate your smile, custom-made porcelain veneers may be the answer. Porcelain veneers attach to the front of teeth to cover a range of aesthetic concerns, such as cracks, discoloration, and chips.
At The Smile Center, Dr. Scott Parr, Dr. Tara Frey, or Dr. Taylor Parr will provide a full consultation prior to treatment. At this time, they will answer common questions including, “How long do porcelain veneers last?” Our Virginia Beach, VA, practice has a track record of durable, long-lasting veneers. We can also provide tips to help you maintain your veneers and increase their lifespan.
The Lifespan of Porcelain Veneers
According to the American Dental Association, veneers last about ten years. Since your dentist will need to remove a layer of enamel to place veneers, the procedure is not reversible, and you will need to have the veneers replaced.
At the same time, according to a study from Innsbruck Medical University, 82.93% of patients still had functional veneers after 20 years. At The Smile Center, we use advanced, incredibly strong porcelain and have seen veneers last as long as 25 years.
Porcelain Veneers Longevity vs. Dental Bonding Longevity
Dental bonding and porcelain veneers are often used to treat similar issues. During a bonding procedure, your dentist will apply composite resin to the front of your teeth, using the material to reshape your teeth and conceal flaws. Thus, when patients are considering their cosmetic options, they are often torn between bonding and veneers.
It is important to note that, while bonding does cost less than veneers, it also has a much shorter lifespan. Typically, composite resin only lasts about 3 to 10 years.
How to Increase the Lifespan of Porcelain Veneers
Taking good care of your veneers can help them last longer. Fortunately, the way you care for veneers is similar to the way you would care for your natural teeth. To protect your veneers, be sure to:
- Practice good dental hygiene. If you develop cavities, this can compromise veneers, and the damaged teeth may no longer be stable enough to support new porcelain. To protect both your oral health and your cosmetic results, brush and floss daily and visit the dentist for your biannual appointments.
- Avoid putting undue pressure on the porcelain. Although dental porcelain is quite strong, excess force can cause the material to crack. You should never use your teeth to open packages or other items. You should also avoid chewing ice or biting down on hard candies that are meant to dissolve slowly. These are good practices to protect your natural teeth, not just your veneers.
- Consider a mouth guard. Chronic teeth grinding, or bruxism, is one of the most common reasons for veneer failure. If you suffer from this condition, a nighttime mouth guard can help prevent damage to your teeth and veneers.
Contact Us to Learn More about Veneers
Learn more about what to expect with veneers and find out if they are the right cosmetic dentistry treatment for you. Contact our Virginia Beach, VA, office online or call us at (757) 473-8482.