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Porcelain Veneers
Dental veneers are thin, shells of tooth-colored porcelain that are custom made to cover the front surfaces of a patient's teeth. Their purpose is to improve the way teeth look by changing their shape, size, colour, or length, to provide a patient with an overall more uniform smile.
They can be used in combination with other cosmetic dental treatments, like teeth whitening or bonding, in a full-mouth dental makeover.
The Lifespan of Dental Veneers
On average, porcelain veneers can last approximately 15 years, but they could last much longer (20 years or more) in certain situations, depending on a few key factors.
The longevity of veneers is affected by how well they are cared for. Patients who maintain good oral hygiene (brushing and flossing) at home and who visit the dentist on a regular basis for professional dental cleanings and checkups are more likely to keep their veneers for longer.
Some of the longevity will also rely on the correction of any oral health problems the patient might have that could put excessive pressure on the veneers and teeth. Some examples of these problems are bite issues, clenching, grinding, and a habit of biting hard objects (like pen lids or fingernails).
Why Porcelain Veneers Have to Be Replaced
While porcelain can be very durable, over time it will start to experience wear and tear in the form of chipping, breakage, decay, or debonding. They may also have to be replaced if the patient experiences gum recession, as this can make the veneer not fit properly anymore.
Who Can Get Veneers?
If you are unhappy with the way your smile looks, you might want to know if dental veneers are the right option for you.
They’re not the best solution for seriously damaged teeth. Crowns are probably a better option for those situations. But veneers may be a good option if your teeth are:
- Undersized
- Fractured
- Discolored
- Chipped
You should also find out if your insurance will cover veneers. Depending on the situation, veneers might be considered an elective cosmetic treatment. If that’s the case, insurance probably won’t cover any portion of the cost.
Talk to your dentist about the best options for you, your budget, and the look you want to achieve. You may even want to ask if there’s a way to see a digital image of what your smile might look like with veneers.
Knowing If Dental Venners Are For You
Porcelain veneers are durable cosmetic dental restorations that can improve the way your smile looks. Although, they are not right for everyone or every dental health problem. In some cases, other restorations like dental crowns, dental bonding, orthodontics, or teeth whitening may be more effective treatment options.