Dental veneers, which are usually composed of porcelain or composite resin, are wafer-thin shells that are custom-made to fit the front surface of the teeth. With reasonable precautions, dental veneers can last between 10 and 30 years. Porcelain is glass, and glass can break if excessive pressure is applied to it. Veneers have a distinct advantage over crowns, since they only require a minimal amount of alteration to natural teeth. People can also choose to wear dental crowns if they want an alternative solution. According to Dr. Matthew S. Wittrig, DDS, It's important to take reasonable precautions because dental veneers aren't indestructible. You're very likely to break your veneer if you open the lid of a bottle with your teeth, chew on ice, or bite your nails. People who grind their teeth at night will benefit greatly from wearing a night guard.
How to Maximize Veneers Lifespan
Assuming you provide them with proper care, regular visits to the dentist, brushing and flossing, most veneers can last 10 to 15 years. Some even last up to 20 years. If you've been frowning at your smile in the mirror, you might be wondering if dental veneers are the right choice for you. Dental veneers are basically thin layers that are applied to the front of the teeth, making them look even and undamaged. Patients who have chipped, stained, or misshapen teeth are often interested in veneers to improve the appearance of their smiles, but before booking their procedure, they want to know how long the veneers last and how they can maximize their lifespan.
Choosing the Right Type of Dental Veneer: Factors to Consider for Cost, Lifespan, and Appearance
Depending on the type of veneer you choose and other lifestyle factors, the lifespan of a veneer typically lasts between 5 and 10 years. Dental porcelain veneers are a thin layer of porcelain material that adheres to the surface of the tooth. A study of 84 people with porcelain veneers even found that the veneers had lasted up to 20 years. Composite veneers require a highly qualified provider (dentist or prosthodontist), while porcelain veneers require an excellent laboratory technician for a successful outcome. The bad news is that dental insurance companies almost always consider porcelain veneers to be cosmetic and therefore don't cover them or only cover them to a limited extent. Dental veneers often improve the appearance of stained or discolored teeth, which can be attributed to several different factors.
When choosing which type of dental veneer is right for you, you'll have to consider several factors, including the short- and long-term cost, the expected lifespan of the veneers, and the appearance you hope to achieve.
This article was made possible by Dr. Matthew S. Wittrig, DDS
