Are veneers a permanent solution for your dental imperfections?
When used by a skilled dentist, dental veneers have the power to aesthetically enhance teeth and makeover smiles. But while the results are stunning, those who are interested in this treatment often find themselves with many questions —- especially when it comes to how long veneers last.
This article will explore how they are used and whether or not dental veneers are permanent.
How Do Veneers Work?
Dental veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or other material that are bonded to the front side of the tooth. They are custom-designed so they blend in beautifully with the rest of your teeth while covering up any imperfections.
Veneers are a great cosmetic solution for teeth that:
- Have chips or cracks
- Are misshapen, uneven, or irregular in size
- Have stains or discolorations that won’t benefit from whitening treatments
- Have gaps
Placing the veneer on the front of the tooth covers many of these flaws, leaving behind a beautiful smile.
Because they are a cosmetic treatment, veneers are primarily used on front teeth or those that are exposed when you smile.
Are Veneers Permanent?
Veneers are considered permanent since they cannot be removed and replaced at your convenience. In other words, once they are put in place on your teeth, they are meant to stay there until your dentist removes them.
What’s more, because a thin layer of the enamel must be removed before the veneers can be placed, you will likely want to keep your veneer — or get a new one when its lifespan is up.
Your dentist will be able to answer any questions you may have about getting veneers now and how to address them in the future. In the meantime, know that veneers are a permanent cosmetic dentistry option.
How Long Do Veneers Last?
How long your veneers will last depends on the type of material they are made with. For best results, porcelain veneers have the greatest longevity. You can expect them to last about 10 to 15 years on average. However, with exceptional oral hygiene and care, they can last upwards of 30 years.
Other types of veneers, such as those made with composite material or instant veneers do not last nearly as long.
Signs it is Time to Replace Your Veneers
There may come a time when you need to replace your veneers due to wear and tear. If you visit your dentist regularly, your dental team will know when that time is near. Of course, there are a few signs you can look out for, too, such as chips, cracks, or discolorations.
Whenever your veneer no longer feels like it is fulfilling your aesthetic needs, it is time to replace it.
The process of getting new veneers is rather simple. Your dentist will remove the old veneers and replace them with a new set using the same procedures used initially.
Are Veneers Right For You?
If you are interested in learning more about veneers, including whether or not they are right for you, the team at Creekview Dental in Woodbury, MN can help. We have watched many patients have their smiles transformed with the help of precisely-placed porcelain veneers.
To learn more or schedule an appointment, contact us today at 651-738-8204. Or, request an appointment online.
