Wear and tear on your teeth can affect your smile and overall confidence. Luckily, veneers offer an effective solution to help improve the overall look of your smile. They are a long-term solution to giving you a brighter smile, but just how long do they last? Find out how long veneers last and how to help prolong their existence.  

What are veneers?

Veneers are a thin covering that go on the front surface of a tooth. They can improve the appearance of your teeth as well as help improve the comfort of an individual’s teeth and bite.

What are the types of veneers?

There are two main types of veneers which are porcelain veneers and composite veneers.

Porcelain veneers are made out of porcelain. They tend to have a more natural look to them and are stain-resistant. Porcelain veneers are considered more durable than the alternative.

Composite veneers are made from a composite resin and a tooth-color filling material. They are quicker to apply than porcelain veneers and require less removal of tooth enamel for application.  

Why do people get veneers?

People get veneers for a multitude of reasons; some are functional reasons while others are aesthetic. Functional reasons for getting veneers are:

• Strengthen teeth: veneers can add a layer of protection to worn-down teeth, helping their strength and function.
• Gaps: veneers can be used to close small gaps between teeth without the need for braces or orthodontic treatment. These gaps can make it difficult to chew food properly or speak without an impalement.

As mentioned, there are also cosmetic reasons to get veneers. Those reasons consist of:

• Chips or cracks: Similarly, veneers can fix and conceal a chipped or cracked tooth for a smooth and natural look.
• Discoloration: veneers can cover teeth that are discolored and that are resistant to whitening methods.

These cosmetic reasons can help improve confidence for an individual which can be a benefit to get veneers itself.

Another reason a person might opt for veneers as opposed to braces is that they are a quick, but long-lasting solution. Braces or other orthodontic treatments can take time to make the perfect smile, while veneers provide a much faster solution while being minimally invasive.

How long do veneers last?

The lifespan of veneers varies based on the type of veneer you get. Below is an estimate of how long each type will last.

• Porcelain veneers last approximately 10 to 15 years.
• Composite resin veneers are typically good for 5 to 7 years.
• How your veneers are cared for will greatly determine their lifespan.

What helps veneers longevity?

There are numerous things that can help improve the longevity of veneers. Some can be controlled by a patient, while others cannot. Here are the items that a patient can do to help improve their veneers:

• Oral hygiene: taking proper care of your teeth is one of the most important things that can be done to take care of your veneers. Regularly brushing and flossing are key to extend the life of both porcelain and composite veneers. It is also necessary to visit your dentist for your bi-annual checkups as well.
• Nightguard: If you are someone who experiences bruxism, or teeth grinding, a nightguard is recommended to protect your teeth from wearing down quicker.
• Diet: Certain beverages, such as coffee and red wine, are known to stain veneers easily. Avoiding these drinks can help lengthen the lifespan of your veneers. It is also important to not eat hard candies or foods often as they can wear down your teeth quicker.
• Quality of materials: Ensure your dentist uses the highest quality porcelain or composite resin when doing your veneers to make sure they last as long as possible.
• Dentist skill: A dentist with more experience placing veneers will be able to ensure a proper fit and bonding which will improve overall durability.

Are you a good candidate for veneers?

If you’re considering veneers for cosmetic or functional reasons, contact Fortson Dentistry to find out if you’re a good candidate. Reach out to our metro-Detroit offices by phone at +1 (248) 557-8120.

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