Modern dental veneers have been around for longer than you might think. Dentist Charles Pincus used the cosmetic treatment to enhance the smiles of Hollywood actors in the 1930s. Back then, the cosmetic veneers had to be replaced every few months.
Today, a high-quality dental veneer can last substantially longer. Read on to learn more about dental veneer cost factors and how long you can expect your porcelain veneers to last.
How Long Does a Dental Veneer Last?
Dental veneers do not have a set lifespan because there are many factors that can influence how long the cosmetic treatment lasts. In general, you can expect the paper-thin shells to last for up to 10 years, according to the American College of Prosthodontists. Of course, many patients enjoy their veneers for longer than 10 years.
Tips for Extending the Lifespan of Your Veneers
One of the best ways to enjoy long-lasting cosmetic results is by working with a trusted dental practice. At Brentwood Dental Spa, we bring unparalleled expertise and advanced technology to treating your teeth.
Our dentists work with advanced porcelain materials that are durable and completely natural-looking. You’ll never have to worry that your dental veneer fell off too soon. Beyond working with the team at Brentwood Dental Spa, you can follow these tips to protect your new veneers.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Like a lot of things dental-related, the health of your teeth and gums matters. Your veneer will be fabricated from durable porcelain, but it can only remain attached to your teeth if your enamel stays strong and healthy.
Protecting your teeth and veneers is easy. Simply brush at least twice a day and floss regularly. Regular visits to our dental practice for check-ups and cleanings allow our dentists to check for damage or wear on your veneers.
Watch What You Eat and Bite
One of the easiest ways to damage, loosen, or dislodge your veneers is by biting something that is too hard. Never use your veneers to tear open packages or to pry open anything.
Veneer glue dental repairs may be needed if your veneer becomes loose. Or you may need to buy a new veneer altogether.
Even certain types of food can be harmful to your veneers. Nuts, bones, and other hard foods can chip or dislodge your veneers. So be careful when eating those dishes.
Cutting back on sugary or acidic foods can further help you protect your teeth and veneers. Bacteria feed off sugar. Over time, the microbes can lead to enamel wear that can weaken the bond between your teeth and veneers.
Protect Your Veneers
If you grind your teeth at night, you may want to wear a nightguard or a similar device that protects your teeth at night. You should also wear a mouthguard if you do a sport that can result in an injury to the face. Any step you take to lower your risk of accidentally damaging your veneers will extend the lifespan of the paper-thin shells.
What Do I Do if My Veneer Comes Loose?
There are a number of reasons that a veneer may become loose or dislodged. The dental cement that is used to place veneers is strong, but it will not last forever. Toward the end of your veneer’s lifespan, it may come loose.
Whether your veneer becomes loose or fully dislodged, call our office immediately. We may be able to see you immediately. A loose veneer isn’t fun, but it also isn’t necessarily a dental emergency.
Depending on the condition of your veneer and the health of your enamel, one of our dentists may be able to place the veneer back in its original position. If that’s not possible, a new veneer will be fabricated.
How Are Veneers Placed?
Now that you know how long veneers last, you probably are curious about how our dentist will place your veneers. One possibility you may want to explore before this treatment deals with a dental crown vs veneer. Dental crowns completely encase a damaged tooth in a protective cap.
Tooth Preparation
Veneers cover the front of teeth and require far less removal of enamel. Before your teeth are treated, one of our dentists will use local anesthesia to numb your tooth. Once you are comfortable, he will use a special tool to gently remove a small amount of natural tooth structure.
Dental Impression and Veneer Fabrication
Once the tooth is prepared and cleaned, one of our dentists will make an impression of the treated tooth. The impression is used to fabricate a custom porcelain veneer that fits perfectly over your teeth.
Final Placement
Once the veneers are ready, our dentist will use strong dental cement to bond the veneer to the front of one of your teeth. This process can be done several times to treat multiple teeth during one or more visits. At every step in the process, our dentist will take great care to ensure that your veneers last 10 years or longer!
Schedule Your Dental Veneer Treatment Today
By working with our skilled dental team, you can enjoy your new dental veneer for many years. Even the best veneers won’t last forever, but patients have an active role to play in maintaining and protecting their veneers.
Are you ready to enjoy a Hollywood smile? Dental veneers can enhance the beauty of your smile, and the results can last for 10 years or longer. To schedule your cosmetic consultation, please contact our office today.