How Long do Dental Veneers Last?

How long veneers last is an important question for anyone considering this cosmetic dental appliance.

They are a common fix for discolored, chipped, broken and misshapen teeth as well as for gaps between the teeth. Less costly than crowns, they are not always covered by insurance and can run anywhere from $1000 to $2000 a tooth.

Veneers are sturdy but not indestructible. They can last from five to 15 years. The variance is dependent on how they were constructed and the care given them. To make sure you get the longest wear for your investment, start with the material used.

Why choose veneers?

Veneers are minimally invasive when compared to crowns. They are used to improve the appearance and shape of teeth making patients more confident in their smile.

They can even be used to correct gaps in the teeth and avoid the costly, painful and time-consuming process of braces for a minor issue.

The best way to know if veneers are the correct solution to the perfect smile is to schedule a consultation with a dentist.

Porcelain vs. Snap-Ons

Veneers are typically made with porcelain or a resin-composite material. The type of material used will play a large role in how long the veneers last.

For porcelain veneers, a small part of the enamel is removed from the front of the tooth and a custom fit shell is constructed and then cemented to the front of the tooth. Due to this procedure, they are sturdier and last longer than what is often referred to as “snap-ons.” This is because snap-ons do not require as much prep or removal of enamel to fix onto the tooth.

Porcelain also has the advantage over resin of being more stain-resistant and appearing more natural. These qualities increase their value. Despite the higher upfront cost, they are an overall better investment lasting up to 10 years longer than their resin counterparts.

With proper care, porcelain veneers will last 10 to 15 years while snap-ons have a life expectancy of five to seven years.

Proper care

Dental veneers require the same type of care as natural teeth. Treat them well and they will last. Follow good oral hygiene practice by brushing at least twice a day, flossing and seeing your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.

After investing in veneers make sure to protect them. Wear mouth guards when playing impact sports. If you are prone to grinding, wear a nighttime mouth guard as well. Don’t use your teeth to open packages or loosen knots. Avoid chomping on ice or hard candies.

While veneers are stain-resistant they are not fool-proof. Continue to limit consumption of coffee, tea, cigarette smoke, wine, and sugar. These weaken or erode your natural teeth’s enamel and over time can have an effect on veneers as well.

For those investing in their smile, knowing how long veneers last is an important part of making the decision. When considering veneers, crowns or any other dental procedure discuss all the options with a trusted professional.

Every smile is unique. Make sure to care for yours!

Are you considering veneers in the Hemet area? Get more information at https://hemetdentalcenter.com.