As a solution for stained, chipped, gapped teeth, or misaligned teeth, veneers make a terrific option. They’re attractive, easy to apply, and while not permanent, they are long lasting. All you have to do is practice good, basic oral hygiene for your smile to look its best.
What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are made from a thin, stain-resistant porcelain or composite dental resin. Whichever material you choose for your teeth, veneers are cemented onto the front surface of teeth, improving the way your teeth look cosmetically as well as helping your teeth restoratively. They are easy to place on your teeth, too.
They usually last between 10 and 15 years, depending on the type of veneer you celect and your own oral care, which greatly assists with extending the lifetime of your veneers.
What’s the best way to extend the life of your veneers? Simply care for them just as you do for your natural teeth. That means brushing and flossing twice daily, with careful brushing for two minutes, including on the tops of your teeth, to make sure you are being thorough. And it also means scheduling those regular six-month appointments with your dental team for your all important regular check-ups and routine cleaning. No matter how thorough your cleaning is at home, you still need regular professional cleaning to remove plaque and preserve the health of your teeth - and your veneers!
Maintaining Good Oral Health
Maintaining good oral health and the longevity of your veneers also includes avoiding some things, like high-sugar foods such as sodas or hard candy which can damage your teeth. And you don’t chew on ice or your fingernails, or use your teeth to open envelopes or a package. Each of these things can damage your teeth and your veneers!
One other thing to remember: porcelain veneers are stain-resistant, but composite veneers are not. They will react just like your natural teeth due to substances. This means that they can be stained from foods and beverages you consume, such as coffee, tea, and red wine, as well as some berries. It’s a good idea to avoid those foods as much as possible, or sip the beverages through a straw when possible.
One more important tool for preserving veneer life: avoid teeth grinding. Your dentist can fit you with a comfortable mouthguard to avoid grinding and prevent the creation of cracks or chips in your veneers and your natural teeth, as well as preventing the potential pain of TMJ that these habits can cause.
How Do Veneers Work?
Veneers work by covering your natural teeth with a thin porcelain or composite shield. As a first step, your dentist makes an impression of your teeth, in order to create a model for the veneer. Second, your dental team will examine a tooth color guide, in order to select the most natural match for your veneers and your teeth. The veneers, which are created in a dental lab, will be cemented onto your teeth, using a thin but strong bonding material that holds them in place.
Porcelain veneers are one of our specialities at our dental office.
While you are not able to remove veneers again, they are easy to replace when they wear out.
Remember, veneers typically last between 10 to 15 years. But exactly how long they last depends on both the type of veneer you choose and your own oral care. Both can assist with extending the life of your veneers.
Veneers are not permanent. But they do offer a long term benefit, enhancing both your appearance and your overall dental health.
Are You Ready to Learn More About Applying Veneers?
If you’re considering full mouth veneers or a single veneer, we’re here ready to help. Our dental team is experienced in both cosmetic and restorative dentistry, including veneers.
So, if you would like to learn more or schedule an appointment, reach out to us today and let us help you make your smile look its best!