Longevity of Veneers: How Long Do They Last?
When you decide to enhance your smile, dental veneers are a popular choice for smile enhancement. Veneers are customized shells made up of porcelain or composite resins bonded to the teeth’ front surface. But many of you must have this question while planning for veneers – how long do dental veneers last?
This is the most common query asked by our experts at The Advanced Dental Clinic Delhi. In the information provided below, we will discuss the factors affecting longevity and the two most common types of dental veneers – brought to you by The Advanced Dental Clinic Delhi.
Types of veneers – how long do dental veneers last?
There are mainly two kinds of dental veneers, namely porcelain and resin-based composite veneers. Let’s briefly discuss both types and see how they are different in terms of longevity.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are fabricated in the dental lab and are known
for their durability and natural appearance. They are customized, which ensures a precise fit and the ability to mimic the natural qualities of your teeth. Porcelain veneers are highly resistant to staining, making them a popular choice amongst the two variants of dental veneers.
Composite Resin Veneers
Composite veneers or resin-based veneers, on the other hand, are done mainly on the chair side and are an affordable option compared with porcelain veneers. They are applied to your teeth and molded by our smile experts to give that natural appearance. Regarding durability and longevity, they may not last as long as porcelain veneers. However, the lifespan can be enhanced with proper care and maintenance.
Factors affecting how long do dental veneers last?
Lifestyle Habits
Diet
Your dietary options play an integral role in determining the life of your dental veneers. Avoid the consumption of darkly stained food items to prevent discoloration. Smoking is also a significant contributor to the staining of veneers.
Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)
Addressing this issue is crucial before veneer planning if you have a habit of teeth grinding or bruxism. A nightguard is a suitable option recommended by our team at The Advanced Dental Clinic Delhi. It is essential to address bruxism first, as the extra stress generated while clenching can cause the veneers to fracture.
Veneer Material
Porcelain vs. Composite Resin
The choice of material plays a significant role in determining the longevity. The porcelain veneers stay longer due to their durable material and ability to withstand natural wear.
Veneer Maintenance and Care
Proper Oral Hygiene
The veneer maintenance and aftercare are similar to that of natural teeth. Regular brushing twice daily with the correct technique is essential for proper oral hygiene maintenance. The veneers resist caries, but the teeth underneath must be protected. Besides brushing, it is vital to incorporate flossing into your daily routine. If you are not flossing, you just clean two-thirds of your teeth. Use a waxed thread or water flosser to clean the areas between the teeth.
Habits
Avoid nonfunctional habits like nail biting, chewing onto pens or pencils, and using your teeth as tools to open packages. Biting onto hard food items like raw fruits and vegetables can chip or crack the veneers.
Mouthguard or nightguard
A mouthguard is suggested to protect veneers if you participate in contact sports. Nightguard is used to protect you from the habit of teeth clenching or grinding.
Dental Check-ups
Regular dental checkups every 4-6 months are necessary to monitor the condition of your veneers. It is essential to detect any early signs of damage or disease to take necessary actions.