Here’s How Long You Can Expect Your New Veneers to Last

Veneers are an increasingly popular cosmetic dentistry option that can transform your smile and boost your confidence. If you're considering getting them, you're probably wondering how long they will last and what you can do to extend their lifespan. 

David Epstein, DDS, Nikita Vakil, DMD, Leah Zils, DDS, and our team here at The Woodlands Dental Group in The Woodlands, Texas, are here to shed light on this topic. In this blog, they discuss the lifespan of veneers and how you can make the most of your investment.

The basics of dental veneers

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are bonded to the front surfaces of the teeth you can see when you smile. Veneers can cover up stained teeth, make small or oddly shaped teeth look uniform, and reinforce teeth may have minor chips or cracks.

Veneers are custom-made, and to apply them, your provider shaves off just enough enamel to make room for them. Then, they’re secured to your teeth with a special dental cement. 

Veneers are usually made from porcelain, but some are made of composite resin. Once you get veneers, you’ll need to wear them for life since some of the enamel is shaved to make room for them. However, they’re easy to replace if needed.

When it comes to longevity, the average lifespan of veneers is 10-15 years. However, there are certain factors that can increase or reduce their lifespan, as we’ll explain here.

Factors that can affect the durability of veneers

The durability of veneers can depend on several factors, including:

Material quality

Veneers made from high-quality materials, such as porcelain, tend to last longer and provide better aesthetics compared to lower-quality alternatives. Professional, high-quality veneers will always last longer (and look better) than over-the-counter DIY veneer kits. 

Oral hygiene

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for the health of your teeth as well as the longevity of your veneers. Regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental checkups can prevent plaque buildup and keep your veneers in top condition.

Bruxism (teeth grinding)

If you suffer from teeth grinding or clenching, known as bruxism, this can put excessive pressure on your veneers and lead to premature wear and damage. If you do have bruxism, it’s important to wear a nightguard to prevent accidental cracks and chips.

Dietary habits

Be mindful of what you eat and avoid excessive consumption of hard foods. Furthermore, avoid habits that can damage your veneers, such as biting your nails or chewing on pen caps or ice.

Stain-causing substances

While porcelain veneers are resistant to stains, composite resin veneers may be more susceptible. To keep your veneers looking bright, minimize your intake of coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco products. If you do imbibe, rinse your mouth with water after drinking. 

Dental check-ups

Visiting The Woodlands Dental Group regularly for checkups can allow our team to spot any issues with your veneers and address them promptly to extend their lifespan.

5 tips to prolong the lifespan of your veneers

Here are some things you can do to keep your veneers in good shape for as long as possible:

1. Adopt a consistent oral hygiene routine

Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, floss daily, and use a nonabrasive fluoride toothpaste.

Don’t forget to replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months or as soon as it shows signs of wear.

2. Wear a mouthguard

If you have bruxism, wear a custom-fitted mouthguard at night to protect your veneers from grinding-related damage. We custom-make mouthguards for our patients, so you can be sure that you’ll get a perfect fit.

3. Avoid using your teeth as tools

Refrain from using your teeth to open packages or bite on hard objects. Taking a few extra seconds to find a pair of scissors to open up packages or remove plastic tags from clothes can go a long way in preserving your veneers.

4. Choose a balanced diet

Consume a balanced diet rich in nutrients that will support your dental health, and avoid excessively hard or sticky foods. Some of the best foods for teeth include calcium-rich foods, such as spinach and dairy products, and healthy protein sources, such as eggs, chicken, and fish.

5. Quit smoking

Apart from its overall health benefits, quitting smoking will also help preserve the appearance and longevity of your veneers.

Getting started with veneers

Veneers can be a fantastic investment in your smile and self-confidence. By choosing high-quality materials and following good oral hygiene practices, you can expect your veneers to last for many years.

To learn more about veneers and to see if they could help you, call 281-367-3085 to book an appointment with The Woodlands Dental Group today.