Are dental veneers permanent?

Dental veneers are cosmetic restorations that can address a variety of aesthetic issues. But are they permanent? Here, our Winnipeg dentists review the longevity of veneers and their purpose.

What are dental veneers?

Dental veneers are a thin and custom-made porcelain restoration that your dentist bonds to the front of your teeth. They create a surface that appears and feels very similar to a natural tooth when bonded to teeth with composite resin.

Veneers can help to change how the position, colour and contour of your teeth are perceived, leaving you with an aesthetically altered smile.

How long do porcelain dental veneers last?

Porcelain veneers aren't permanent since, usually, they will have to be replaced at some point. However, if they are properly cared for, they can last a significant amount of time, even up to 15 years. Depending on certain factors, veneers can even last longer than that.

After you've had veneers placed, it will be more important than ever that you maintain an excellent oral hygiene routine. That's because the longevity of your veneers depends on how well you care for them. Patients who maintain good oral hygiene (brushing and flossing daily) at home and who visit the dentist regularly for professional dental exams and cleanings are more likely to see their veneers last longer.

The longevity of your veneers will also be impacted by whether or not oral health issues are properly addressed. Issues with your bite, grinding your teeth, clenching your jaw or chewing on hard objects can all place too much pressure on your teeth (and your veneers).

Why do porcelain veneers need to be replaced?

Though porcelain is very durable, porcelain veneers can chip, fracture, decay or debond over time. You may also need to replace them if you experience gum recession, as this may cause the veneer to not fit correctly anymore.

Caring for dental veneers

There are a couple of things you are able to do to help your veneers last as long as you can. As we mentioned above, a good oral health routine is imperative to keeping your veneers in good condition. Some other steps you can take include:

Wearing a mouthguard while playing contact sports

Trauma to the mouth (such as a run-in with another person or object) and cause dental veneers to fracture or fall off. This is why it’s important to wear a mouthguard to protect your restorations if you play contact sports.

Avoiding sticky, hard foods or using your teeth as tools

While your veneers are designed to stand up to everyday chewing, don't fall into the habit of chewing ice or using them as a tool for ripping open packages. This can increase their risk fo loosening, chipping or breaking.

Attending your regular dental appointments

attending routine dental exams not only allows your dentist to give your teeth a deep clean, but will also serve as a chance for them to check in on your veneers and treat issues before they have the opportunity to fully develop.

Practicing excellent oral hygiene

You've likely heard it before: brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time and floss at least once per day. Tooth decay can be a common cause of failure in dental veneers.

Are porcelain veneers right for me?

Although dental veneers can be used as a treatment option for a number of different cosmetic dental issues, they aren't right treatment for every problem. In some cases, other restorations like dental bonding, crowns, teeth whitening or orthodontic treatments may actually be more effective than dental veneers.