How Long Do Veneers Last? | Are Porcelain Veneers Permanent?

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Veneers can last 15 years or longer, depending on how well you care for your new smile. To enjoy the full lifespan of this popular cosmetic treatment, there are do's and don'ts to take into consideration.

What are veneers?

Veneers are a long-wearing solution for patients with dental wear and tear. The process includes placing a custom-made veneer onto the surface of the tooth to reimagine its shape, size and colour. Crafted from porcelain, our dental veneers eliminate chips, discolouration, misshapenness and gaps. Patients considering this procedure will most likely be wondering, are veneers permanent? As they require part of the tooth to be shaved down, the treatment is irreversible, meaning your veneers constantly need replacing. In terms of longevity, veneers can last 15 years or more.

Do some types of veneers last longer than others?

The two main types of veneers are porcelain and composite (also known as Nanofill Composite Bonding®). We use porcelain as it is durable and has superior stain resistance, while still looking ultra-natural in the mouth. On the other hand, the composite resin used in our dental bonding procedure usually lasts between 3-8 years and is more likely to chip.

How do I make my veneers last longer? The do’s

There are ways in which you can support the lifespan of your veneers:

Maintain good oral hygiene: Remember to brush your teeth twice a day and floss regularly. This protects against gum disease, cavities and decay.
Attend regular check-ups: Your dentist will be able to identify any issues that may affect the longevity of your treatment.
Follow aftercare instructions: Pay attention to what your dentist says once your procedure is complete and follow their instructions as best as you possibly can.
Wear a mouth guard: If you play sports or excessively clench or grind your teeth (bruxism), consider wearing a mouth guard to shield your veneers.
Express concerns: If you have any concerns about your veneers, please contact your dentist. The earlier an issue is identified, the easier it is to fix.

How do I make my veneers last longer? The don'ts

Avoiding the following will also aid the lifespan of your veneer treatment:

Use your teeth as tools: Just like your natural teeth, veneers are not indestructible. Resist chewing on hard objects or using your teeth to open things.
Eat staining food and drinks: Veneers cannot be whitened once fitted. Avoid staining food and drinks to preserve the bright colour of your veneers.
Eat hard, crunchy foods: Hard sweets, nuts and ice are just some of the foods that may chip your new teeth. It is best that you cut these out of your diet (if able).
Smoke: Smoking not only poses a serious health risk – it also makes your veneers turn yellow or brown.
Vape: Similar to smoking, this habit discolours your teeth and weakens veneer adhesion. As a result, patients who vape or smoke can experience complications such as cracking and the loss of their veneers.

Are veneers worth it?

Dental veneers are a lifelong commitment that we believe is worth it. The confidence-boosting treatment allows patients with worn and damaged teeth to achieve a beautiful, ultra-dazzling smile. It also fixes their dental issues for a restored quality of life. Conclusion: Rest assured that, when you choose Yorkshire Dental Suite for veneers, you are getting the best of cosmetic dentistry. Don't prolong your dream smile any longer – book a consultation today.