How Long Do Dental Veneers Last?

Many people are unhappy with the shape or colour of their teeth. Hence, it’s no surprise that dental veneers are one of the most popular cosmetic services in dentistry nowadays. They are a great way to achieve a beautiful white smile and can stay on your teeth for many years. But how long do they last?

If you’re considering dental veneers, you likely have more questions about their lifespan. In this blog post, we’ll discuss them and more. So whether you’re considering dental veneers or already have them, be sure to read on!

What is a Dental Veneer?

Dental veneers are one way to help improve the appearance of teeth. They are thin, tooth-coloured shells that adhere to the front surface of teeth. They are made from porcelain or composite resin materials and are bonded to the surface of the teeth.

Veneers are popular for those with chipped teeth, gaps between teeth, misshapen teeth, or discoloured teeth. They can give you a more classically shaped look and improve the overall appearance of your smile.

How Long Do Dental Veneers Last?

While the lifespan of dental veneers varies from person to person, here is some information to help you understand what to expect from the most common types:

Porcelain veneers

Porcelain is commonly used for dental veneers because it is thin and translucent, which produces a realistic result. Another reason why many people consider porcelain veneers is because they have a good reputation for their lifespan. A 2018 review of studies suggests that this type of veneer can last ten years or longer in most cases. One study found that porcelain veneers had lasted as long as 20 years.

However, the same 2018 review also discussed that some research had uncovered a shorter lifespan of porcelain veneers, which may result from bonding the veneers to the teeth that weren’t adequately prepared. St

ill, if you’re considering dental veneers, porcelain can be an excellent option that will likely stay beautiful on your teeth for many years.

Composite resin veneers

Resin-composite is another commonly used material for dental veneers. Compared to porcelain, composite has shorter longevity as they’re not as durable and may tend to stain over time, requiring maintenance. According to the same study mentioned above, their average lifespan is approximately 3 to 5 years.

The advantage is that they cost less than porcelain. So, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly alternative to get veneers, you may want to consider composite veneers.

Do Dental Veneers Stay White?

Dental veneers are generally designed to be long lasting as possible. Yet, most of them need proper care to maximise their longevity. Among the other types of dental veneers, porcelain veneers are the one that is highly stain-resistant, meaning they can maintain the same beautiful, bright white shade for years after their application.

However, it is essential to note that dental veneers are not completely stain-proof. Like your natural healthy teeth, veneers may still be susceptible to discolouration. It is important to avoid foods and beverages that can stain your teeth, including coffee, tea, and red wine, to keep your veneers looking their best.

What Habits Can Shorten the Life of Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers can be damaged by certain habits, just like your real teeth. For instance, biting down on hard foods, including ice cubes, sticky candies, lollipops, nuts, and seeds. Similarly, using your teeth to open packages or bite your nails can create cracks or chips.

Habits like these can shorten the life of your veneers and damage their aesthetic appeal. Avoiding them and practising good oral hygiene can help prolong the life of your dental veneers and keep your mouth clean.

How Can You Make Your Dental Veneers Last Longer?

As with most dental procedures, veneers are not designed to be permanent and have a natural lifespan. Even so, you can get the most out of them by treating them well. After all, they can be a worthy investment in your oral health. Here are some ways to take good care of your dental veneers:

• Your diet matters.
  What you eat and drink affects your whole body, including your teeth. Avoid acidic and sugary foods and beverages as much as possible, as these can wear down the enamel and, eventually, the veneers.
• Brush and floss regularly.
  You still need to take good care of your natural teeth, even if you have veneers. Brushing twice a day and flossing daily helps remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth which can cause decay. It’s also essential to use a soft-bristled toothbrush to prevent damage to the veneers.
• See your dentist regularly.
  Having regular checkups and cleaning helps ensure that your mouth is healthy overall. Your dentist can also spot any changes or damage in your veneers and immediately perform the right action.
• Address tooth grinding.
  If you clench or grind your teeth, ask your dentist about a dental appliance that can help you manage them.
• Wear a mouth guard.
  Whenever you need to play contact sports, we recommend wearing mouth guards to protect your teeth and veneers from potential chips or cracks.
• Avoid poor habits.
  Never use your teeth to open packages or loosen a knot. Smoking may also stain your veneers over time.

What Are the Disadvantages of Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers can offer several benefits. Yet, some disadvantages do exist, including the following:

• Irreversible.
  Veneers are irreversible once bonded, as the teeth have to be reshaped to fit them. It means that if you change your mind or don’t like the final look, there’s no going back. Hence, it’s best that you are sure you want veneers before the procedure. Make sure you go to an experienced and reputable dentist, as a bad job could lead to further problems.
• Tooth sensitivity.
  Your dental enamel is exposed slightly just before the veneer is placed, which can cause a mild sensitivity for a few days after the procedure. In most cases, this sensitivity is temporary and will resolve on its own. However, if you experience persistent sensitivity, you should consult your dentist.
• Uneven tooth shade.
  If you have a single veneer instead of a full set, there’s a chance that you may end up with different shades of tooth colour. This is because your natural teeth can change over time, and your veneer will not. This is also true when you get teeth whitening after having veneers. The veneer material is resistant to the bleaching product, making it ineffective. Only your natural tooth will change its colour, leaving your veneers looking unmatched.

Can Your Teeth Rot Under Dental Veneers?

Many people worry that having veneers will cause their natural teeth to rot. However, this is incredibly rare and may only happen when the veneers are not properly fitted and cared for.

If the veneers are appropriately fitted and bonded, they will have no impact on the supporting teeth. They could even protect them from decay since there’s less exposed natural tooth structure.

Following the recommended care and hygiene practices is essential to ensure that your teeth and veneers stay healthy and strong. Otherwise, you could compromise your tooth structure beneath the veneers, which could lead to damage or a shortened lifespan of your dental veneers.

Do Dental Veneers Fall Off?

Veneers can last for many years. But they are not indestructible and can break if neglected. However, there are other reasons why dental veneers may fall off or become damaged.

For instance, the bonding or dental cement that holds veneers in place can weaken over time, causing the veneers to become detached and fall off. Sometimes, if the underlying tooth structure is weak or damaged, this can also cause damage to veneers that can make them fall off.

If you suspect that your veneers are loose, it’s essential to consult with your dentist as soon as possible so that they can assess the situation and make any necessary repairs.

Are Dental Veneers Worth It?

Dental veneers are generally made of strong materials and are designed to enhance the appearance of your teeth and make them look straighter, whiter, and more even. If there’s something about your teeth that you don’t like, veneers can help improve them. And because they’re custom-made, they look natural, and almost no one will be able to tell that you have them.

However, the cost of getting dental veneers can be pretty expensive. But as long as the dentist properly attaches them and you make your best effort to care for them, they can be worthwhile and a long-term investment. You can enjoy having a youthful appearance and a straight and bright smile for many years without the need for teeth whitening and orthodontics.

Final Thoughts

Dental veneers may be a suitable option if you are looking for a long-term smile makeover. This cosmetic treatment can last for a decade or even a few more years with proper care.

However, several factors can influence the lifespan of your veneers, so it’s important to discuss your options with your dentist before getting them placed. Remember that a proper dental hygiene routine and regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining your new beautiful smile.

At Darch Dental Centre, we offer dental veneers and our experienced dentists can help you find the perfect look for your smile. Call us at (08) 9303 9770 or visit our dental clinic today to learn more about this transformative treatment.