With the widespread use of social media, many people desire a perfect smile. In the pursuit of a flawless smile, a lot of patients consider dental veneers as a way to alter their smile. These thin porcelain shells can dramatically transform the look of your teeth. They can correct imperfections and enhance your overall appearance. But, a common question lingers for some patients: Are veneers a permanent solution?
Understanding Dental Veneers
Before you get dental veneers, you should understand what they are. Additionally, you should be better prepared for the process.
Your dentist will use veneers to change your smile to fit your desires. When getting veneers, your dentist will customize these shells to cover the front surface of your teeth. They can mask imperfections and improve the appearance of your smile.
These cosmetic tools are incredibly versatile. They can address issues, such as stubborn stains, cracks, or minor misalignments.
Longevity of Veneers
One of the many benefits of dental veneers is that they are durable. Typically, dental veneers are made of porcelain. This is a sturdy material that can resist staining and wear. It is important to care for veneers properly. With the right care, veneers can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years.
Veneers: A Semi-Permanent Solution
When you get veneers, you choose to invest in your smile. This is not only a cosmetic investment, however. You invest in protecting and replacing your smile. While veneers are long-lasting, they are not entirely permanent. This means that you may need to replace your veneers over time.
Over the years, veneers can experience wear due to regular chewing, biting, and other daily activities. This is not unlike your natural teeth. Dental veneers are more durable, but they are still capable of chipping.
Maintenance and Care
To help your veneers last as long as possible, you need to know how to take care of them. It is crucial that you maintain proper oral hygiene. For example, you need to brush and floss your teeth regularly. With veneers, you can clean them in the same way you treat your natural teeth. This is essential for prolonging the life of your veneers.
Another way to extend the life of your veneers is to avoid harmful habits. You will need to avoid any habits that can prematurely erode your teeth. For example, you should talk to your dentist if you grind your teeth. To protect your veneers, you can use a custom mouthguard. Also, you should stop biting your nails to prevent damage to your teeth and veneers.
Potential Replacements
Your veneers should last a long time. As a result, there shouldn’t be a lot of reasons for you to replace them early. But, you will experience natural changes in your smile over time. As you age, you will have changes in your gum line and tooth position. This means that you may need to replace your veneers for the best smile possible.
Veneers are also stain-resistant. But, if you consume a lot of staining substances, you may need to replace your veneers to match the rest of your smile.