How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?

woman smilingYour teeth are one of the most prominent features of your smile. Any imperfections in your teeth, no matter how minor they are, can significantly affect their appearance, and the overall quality of your smile. At Raptou Family Dental, we can correct the appearance of teeth of your teeth, and your smile, with porcelain veneers. However, how long can this treatment last?

What are Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain veneers are thin, shell-like restorations designed to improve the appearance of teeth affected by minor flaws. We can stain porcelain to perfectly blend in with the color of your natural teeth. The material also reflects light just like your real tooth enamel. Because they blend in so well, no one will be able to tell the difference between your real teeth and your veneers. All they will notice is your beautiful, confident smile.

What Can Veneers Treat?

Porcelain veneers can be used to treat some different cosmetic flaws, including:
•  Chips and cracks that only affect the enamel of your teeth.
•  Gaps between your teeth.
•  Slight overlapping.
•  Teeth that are smaller than the rest.
•  Misshapen teeth.
•  Discolored teeth.

Factors that Affect the Lifespan of Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are rated to last about 15 to 20 years. However, there are a few different factors that can impact their longevity. These factors include:
•  Alcohol consumption. While the occasional beverage might not do any harm, excessive consumption of alcohol can dissolve the bonding agent holding your veneers in place on your teeth.
•  Your oral habits. Habits like nail biting, chewing on ice, and using your teeth to open packaging can cause significant damage to your porcelain veneers. While the material is strong, it is not indestructible. These habits can cause the porcelain to chip or crack.
•  Oral hygiene habits. Porcelain veneers do not decay or develop cavities, but they still collect plaque and bacteria. These substances can lead to cavities on the rest of your teeth, including the areas around the edges of your veneers. Your risk for gum disease also increases. Gum disease can cause gum recession, which can ruin the aesthetics of your veneers.
•  Aggressive tooth brushing habits. When you brush too hard, you risk wearing away your gum tissue, causing gum recession.

Ensuring the Longevity of Your Veneers

There are many issues that can harm your veneers, but there are also ways to ensure their longevity. One of the most important things that you can do is to take good care of your mouth. Continue to brush your teeth twice a day and floss your teeth once a day. These daily oral hygiene habits are essential for eliminating plaque and bacteria buildup from the surfaces of your teeth, preventing issues like cavities and gum disease.

You should maintain regular dental cleanings and exams. In addition to taking care of your teeth and gums, your veneers will also be looked over for signs of wear and other damage. You should also avoid oral habits like chewing on ice or using your teeth to open packages. With proper care, your veneers will last you many years.

Porcelain veneers are an incredibly effective treatment for improving the appearance of your teeth and transforming the appearance of your smile. Call Raptou Family Dental today at (614) 427-0449 to schedule your consultation and find out if porcelain veneers are right for you.

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