How Long Do Dental Veneers Last?

Patients who want to improve their smile may choose dental veneers. Veneers are coverings placed over the top of the tooth to mimic the appearance of natural teeth. Dentists may use veneers to address various problems, including stained teeth, crooked teeth, uneven spaces, or chipped teeth. When applying veneers, dentists may use porcelain or composite materials. To apply the veneers, most dentists remove a portion of the tooth and enamel before bonding the veneers to the tooth.

The lifespan of dental veneers

For patients who may consider dental veneers, lifespan matters. While there may be average longevity for dental veneers, a patient's choices in material and lifestyle significantly impact how long the new smile lasts.

Veneer material

When it comes to dental veneers, the most common material is porcelain. Dentists use porcelain because it is translucent and thin, producing a smile that looks natural. In general, porcelain veneers last the longest. On average, they may last about 10 years or longer. In fact, for some individuals, the veneers last as long as 20 years. Composite veneers, on the other hand, may last around five years.

Another type of veneer includes no-prep veneers. No-prep veneers require less invasive preparation for the veneers. Patients save as much of the tooth enamel as possible. Generally, no-prep veneers may last around 10 years, but some claim they can last up to 20. Choosing the material may depend on the patient's lifestyle or preference.

Patient lifestyle

How patients treat their teeth may increase or decrease the lifespan of their veneers. For example, patients with healthy, strong teeth before the procedure may have longer-lasting veneers. Likewise, maintaining oral health will help the new smile last longer. Patients with veneers should still brush their teeth twice a day and floss daily too. Regular checkups on the veneers can increase their lifespan, as well as cleanings every six months.

For patients who suffer from tooth grinding, a mouthguard may be necessary to reduce the chipping or breakdown of the veneers. Teeth grinding puts excessive pressure on a person's natural teeth, but the impact may be worse with veneers. Likewise, any patient who performs contact sports should protect their new teeth. In general, patients should be careful with their teeth. With veneers, patients may need to practice extra care to prevent chipping or breaking.

For example, patients should not use their teeth as tools. Using teeth to open objects can cause the teeth to break. Likewise, hard foods like ice, nuts, or hard candies may lead to fracturing or chips.

Conclusion

A patient's lifestyle can affect the lifespan of their veneers. On average, veneers may last between five and 10 years, but some studies show veneers may last as long as 20 years. How a patient cares for the veneers and the material the dentist uses has a substantial impact on longevity. When a patient practices extra care and sees a dentist regularly, the veneers can last for a decade or more.

Request an appointment here: https://stonecanyondental.com or call Stone Canyon Dental at (972) 996-3191 for an appointment in our Sunnyvale office.

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