Dental veneers can help fix cosmetic issues like stained and crooked teeth and improve the appearance of the smile. These thin shells can help hide teeth imperfections and give the patient whiter and straighter teeth. The dentist applies them on the surface of the teeth, making them appear white and undamaged.
Veneers offer a long-term solution, though they are not permanent since they can wear out. Here is information on how often you need to replace veneers.
Choosing Dental Veneers
Before you invest in veneers, you need to know the different types, how long they last, and the factors that affect their lifespan. Dental veneers are available in porcelain, composite, and no-prep types.
Porcelain veneers are the most common type due to their natural-looking result. They are also more long-lasting. Veneers can last between five and 15 years, depending on the material you choose.
Candidates for Dental Veneers
Ideal candidates for veneers are people with minor teeth damage since they are not suitable for severely damaged teeth. Good candidates are individuals with chipped, fractured, discolored, and undersized teeth.
The best way to determine if you are a candidate for veneers is by consulting a dentist. If you have severe dental issues, the dentist may recommend crowns. In most cases, insurance companies categorize veneers as cosmetic treatments and do not cover them.
Factors Affecting Veneer Lifespan
The factors that can determine how long your veneers last include:
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The condition of the teeth before installation
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The veneer’s material
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Your oral hygiene habits
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Grinding your teeth – Using a nightguard will prevent excessive dental pressure
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Using teeth to open bottles
Using a mouthguard can help to protect your teeth and prevent veneer damage. Also, be careful when eating hard foods.
Signs of Veneers Wearing Out
Some signs indicate that your veneers will soon need replacement. They include:
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Worn down, cracked, or chipped surfaces
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Decayed supporting teeth
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Gum disease
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Improper installation or getting the wrong size
Proper installation using a good dental bonding agent is necessary to prevent pain and the veneers from eventually falling off.
Replacing Your Veneers
How often you will need to replace your veneers will depend on the type, maintenance, placement, and lifestyle choices. In most cases, you will need to replace them after five to 10 years. You can extend the lifespan through good maintenance.
The placement of the veneers can determine when you need to replace them. Proper placement by an experienced dentist can extend the life of veneers to around 20 years.
It is vital to visit a qualified and experienced cosmetic dentist to install your veneers to help you save money. Your smile can look great for a long time, and you do not have to worry about frequent replacement. Thus, you should avoid smoking and schedule regular visits to the dentist for checkups and dental cleanings.
For more on veneers replacement, visit Robert A. Rees, DDS, at our office in La Jolla, California. You can call (858) 295-8082 today to schedule an appointment.