Are dental veneers permanent?

Dental veneers can address several aesthetic issues, but are they a permanent solution? Our Oakville dentists review the purpose of these restorations and the factors that affect longevity.

What are dental veneers?

Dental veneers are very small, precisely crafted pieces of porcelain that are tooth-coloured that your dentist bonds to the front of your teeth. They are attached to your teeth using composite resin cement, resulting in a surface that resembles natural teeth in both appearance and texture.

Veneers can help to change the perceived position, shape or colour of your teeth, leaving you with a more aesthetically pleasing smile.

How long do porcelain dental veneers last?

Veneers made of porcelain are not thought to be permanent because they will probably need to be changed at some point. However, with proper maintenance, porcelain veneers can last a considerable amount of time, typically 15 years on average. They can last significantly longer (20 years or more), depending on a few important factors.

Maintaining a great oral hygiene routine will be crucial after you've had veneers bonded to your teeth. This is due to the fact that how well you maintain your veneers will determine how long they last. Patients who practice good oral hygiene at home (daily brushing and flossing) and who visit the dentist frequently for checkups and cleanings are more likely to have their veneers last longer.

The resolution of any oral health issues will also affect longevity. Bite issues, biting on hard objects, clenching and grinding your teeth can put too much pressure on your veneers.

Why do porcelain veneers need to be replaced?

Despite being made of a material that is very durable, porcelain, porcelain veneers eventually chip, fracture, decay, or debond. As gum recession may result in the veneer no longer fitting properly, you might also need to get new ones if you have them.

Caring For Dental Veneers

There are a few things you can do to extend the life of your veneers. As previously stated, maintaining excellent oral health care practices is the best way to ensure your veneers remain in excellent condition. This could include:

Wearing A Mouthguard While Playing Contact Sports

Trauma to the mouth (such as a collision with another person or object) can cause dental veneers to fracture or fall off. This is why, if you play contact sports, you should wear a mouthguard to protect your restorations.

Avoiding Sticky, Hard Foods Or Using Your Teeth As Tools

While your dental veneers will withstand normal chewing, do not use them to rip open packages or chew ice, as this increases the risk of chipping, loosening, or breaking them.

Attending Your Regular Dental Appointments

By going to your routine dental checkups, you give your dentist the chance to deep clean your teeth, which is very important. They will also take the time to examine your veneers and address any issues before they have a chance to worsen.

Practicing Excellent Oral Hygiene

You know the drill - brush twice a day for two minutes each time, and floss at least once per day. Tooth decay is a common cause of the failure of dental veneers.

Are porcelain veneers right for me?

Although dental veneers can be used to address a variety of aesthetic issues, they are not always the best option for treating dental health problems or for all patients. Other restorations like dental crowns, dental bonding, teeth whitening, or orthodontics might be a better course of action in some circumstances.