How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?

Before we can address the life expectancy of your new porcelain veneers we need to have a look at your diet, your oral hygiene habits and even your lifestyle.

What is a Porcelain Veneer?

The American Dental Association describe porcelain veneers as a very thin material that cover each and every tooth that is chosen. They are a fantastic and quick way to regain your smile or improve your smile.

Why Chose Porcelain Veneers?

You’ve looked in the mirror and are tired of seeing permanently stained teeth. Or the gap or gaps between your teeth bother you. Maybe you wish you had not chipped that tooth as well. Your dentist has been telling you that your smile is an invaluable asset. An asset that affects your self-confidence and your self-esteem in your personal life and your career. Porcelain veneers can correct stained teeth, cracked and chipped teeth, and close up gaps.

How do they work?

An impression is made of your teeth and it is sent off to a dental lab. They use that impression as a roadmap or guide to create your perfect veneer. The dentist takes a small amount of enamel off the tooth, the tooth is cleaned, an adhesive is applied and the porcelain veneer is placed on the tooth. Just like that you have your smile back or improved.

Porcelain Veneers last a long time with Proper Care

You need to treat your new veneers as if they were natural teeth. Their life depends on your understanding that moving forward. They can stain like natural teeth. You will need to consult with your dentist about colas, tea, coffee and red wine. These are just a few favorites that can stain your new veneers. You will also want to consider chewing ice or biting on a pencil. Although reasonably strong they can chip. Same goes if you still play a sport or spend time in the gym. You may want to consider a simple mouth guard to protect your teeth and your investment in your porcelain veneers. If you play by the rules you can get 10 to 20 years out of your veneers. Those rules are strongly suggested by the health industries. They encourage you to brush your teeth well twice a day for at least two minutes each time. In addition to that you need to floss between your teeth to get the surfaces that the brush could not reach. This removes damaging plaque every day that destroys your teeth and your new veneers. It is also strongly advised to maintain a regular routine of visiting your dentist twice a year. Your dentist is your friend, let them be. They will examine your teeth and gums, take x-rays of what is going on below the gum line, and then professionally clean your teeth. They are there for consultation. They can watch the condition of your new veneers and make suggestions if they see something that is troublesome to them. Like anything in life, take care of your new veneers and they’ll last a long time.

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