How Long Do Veneers Last On Teeth? Porcelain and Composite
Whether you have already had veneers fitted, or if you are considering getting some fitted in the near future, you are probably wondering how long do veneers last.
After all, veneers are not the relatively affordable dental procedure you can undertake, so you need to be sure that you know what you are getting yourself in for before you sign on the dotted line.
What Is The Difference Between Composite and Porcelain Veneers?
There are two main types of material used to fabricate a veneer: composite and porcelain. While both of these materials are used to achieve the same effect, there are some important differences you need to be aware of.
So, how do veneers work that are made from porcelain? Well, porcelain veneers are thin shells that are adhered to the outer surface of the tooth, somewhat similar to false nails.
On the other hand, composite veneers are made up of engineered resin that is affixed to the outer surface. In general, porcelain veneers are usually preferred as they are stronger, more robust, and don’t stain as much as composite.
How Often Do Veneers Need To Be Replaced?
Are veneers permanent? The unfortunate answer to this question is no. There are a number of factors that you need to consider before you can come up with a solid answer.
First of all, your veneers are just like your natural teeth – meaning that they need to be properly cleaned and maintained; otherwise, they will stain and become damaged. On top of this, porcelain is glass, which means it can be shattered with excessive pressure.
With this in mind, porcelain veneers typically last anywhere from 10 to 30 years, depending on how well you look after them. So, how long do veneers last that are made from composite? In these cases, you are probably looking at around 4-8 years since composite is a lot weaker and therefore more prone to damage.
When Are Dental Veneers Used?
Dental veneers are generally used to treat a number of cosmetic issues, such as chipped, discolored, broken, or misshapen teeth. Some people just get one veneer, but the vast majority get at least eight (four on the top and four on the bottom), so they can achieve an even symmetrical smile.
The Benefits of Veneers
So why do people get veneers? Well, as it turns out, there are quite a few benefits to be had from getting them fitted, including:
● A more aesthetic smile
● Covers cosmetic issues
● Prevent tooth discoloration (e.g. white spots on teeth)
● They are low maintenance
● Can increase confidence in your smile
● Protect the underlying teeth
What Can Affect The Lifespan of Veneers?
First of all, tobacco products and smoking, in general, will turn your teeth yellow just as they would your natural teeth. This will begin to affect the aesthetics of your teeth quite quickly, so make sure you avoid smoking if possible.
In addition to this, dark-colored food and beverages will stain teeth, such as wine, tea, coffee, and some sauces. Moderation is key here, as well as remembering to brush after each meal.
Using your veneers as tools is also another culprit of cutting the lifespan of your veneers short. If you use your teeth for opening bottles, biting nails, and so on, they can easily crack under pressure and become damaged.
The bottom line
The short answer to how long veneers last is somewhere between 10-30 years. However, this all depends on the materials that are used to make your veneers, as well as how mindful you can be of your teeth and how well you take care of them with things such as conducting regular oral hygiene.
One of the greatest methods to ensure that your dental veneers stay as long as possible is to rely on a knowledgeable and competent dentist you can trust. At Stephen Spelman DDS Dental center, we take extra care of each and every one of our patients to guarantee that you enjoy your new smile from the moment you see it. Dental veneers are an investment in yourself, so don’t try to save money by not having them professionally installed. Contact us now to schedule a veneer consultation appointment.
