Veneers are thin coverings that improve the appearance of your teeth and smile. They are a great option since they restore your smile by covering stains, chips, and gaps. These custom-made shells only cover the front of your teeth and disguise imperfections.
Many factors affect how long they will last. However, the general lifespan is an average of 10 years. It depends on the type of veneers. Here is a look at the various types available and their longevity.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain is the most common material for veneers. It is translucent, thin, and gives a natural look. They are more resistant to stains than composite veneers and are biocompatible. Hence, you will not injure the soft tissues and gum surrounding your teeth with ease. They also require minimum preparation in comparison to crowns.
Studies show that porcelain veneers last a long time. They suggest they can go for 10 years or longer depending on the care—up to 20 years with proper care. In contrast, the same studies show that porcelain veneers will not make it to 10 years without good oral care. The secret is in how you take care of your veneers.
Composite Veneers
These comprise composite resin and are an ideal alternative to porcelain veneers. Resin is a mixture of inorganic and organic materials that lasts five to seven years. But it stains over time, unlike porcelain veneers.
When the composite veneers chip, you can repair them, unlike porcelain veneers that require a replacement of the entire shell. Like porcelain veneers, they do not need as much preparation as crowns. They require a skilled dentist for a successful outcome.
Palatal Veneers
These veneers last around 10 to 15 years. Palatal veneers are a type of onlay for anterior teeth, unlike those that restore posterior teeth. They correct damage from bruxism, deep bite, or dental erosion, which may result from severe acid reflux or chronic vomiting. They are the perfect solution since they restore the compromised part and do not touch the other teeth.
No Prep Veneers
These are exactly as their name suggests. They require less intensive preparation than all the veneers above. The less prep work is due to less removal of enamel. They make your smile pop without requiring much of your enamel before installation. Thus, the process is less invasive.
No-prep veneers are ultra-thin, but they replicate the natural look of teeth more than porcelain veneers. They can last for over 20 years, unlike porcelain veneers, but they also chip faster. It results in a shorter lifespan for this type of veneer. They include Lumineers®, Vivaneers®, and other brands.
How to Ensure Your Veneers Last
Whatever type of veneers you get, you can expand their lifespan with proper care. It includes having good oral hygiene and taking care when eating hard foods. That way, you will prevent cracking and chipping.
You also need to avoid using your teeth as tools and grinding them. Whatever type of veneers you have, take care of them. They will give you the best service for the longest time.
For more information on how long veneers last, visit Boss Dental Care at our Corpus Christi, Texas office. Call (361) 245-5400 to schedule an appointment today.
