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Veneers are often the solution to cracked, yellowish, or uneven teeth. However, veneers are no different from other aesthetic treatment methods that can be damaged at any time. There is a time limit for dental veneers before they break down and need to be replaced.
How long do dental veneers last?
Veneers are thin, tooth-colored skeletons made of porcelain or resin composite materials. Veneer installation aims to beautify teeth by covering deficiencies in shape, color, length, or size.
Both types of veneers have their respective advantages and disadvantages. Composite veneers are usually cheaper and easier to make.
Natural teeth will also not be affected as the dentist only needs to shape the veneers based on the shape of your teeth.
However, composite veneers are not as strong as porcelain veneers. Compared to porcelain veneers, dental veneers made of composite materials are more fragile and do not last long. Porcelain veneers also look more natural and do well to ward off stains.
Composite veneers generally last 3-5 years, or 5-7 years if properly cared for. This means that you must be able to ensure oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist at least once a year.
If you want to install a more durable veneer, porcelain veneer might be the right choice. Porcelain veneers can last for 10-15 years. In fact, some people have porcelain veneers that last up to 25 years.
However, there is no guarantee that dental veneers will last without breaking completely. The resistance of the veneers depends on how you care for them and how regularly you get the veneers checked by the dentist.
How to care for veneers so they don't get damaged quickly
The longer it takes, the durability and quality of the veneer will decrease. Veneer can also wear down more quickly due to accidents, collisions, and the habit of eating hard foods.
Apart from breaking due to food, tooth veneer damage that also often appears is discoloration. Veneers are actually like natural teeth which can also change color if you continue to touch them with drinks, such as coffee and tea.
That's why you need to know how to keep dental veneers more durable. There are no special ways you need to do to make veneer more durable.
You can do the following simple ways:
- Maintain oral hygiene by regularly brushing, flossing, and rinsing with a mouth rinse.
- Do not open food packages with your teeth.
- Do not bite hard objects, such as ice cubes, nails, or pens.
- Not chewing with the front teeth to prevent the tooth veneers from breaking in that area. Use your front teeth only for cutting soft foods.
- Wear protective gear while exercising or if you grind your teeth a lot when you sleep.
Veneers are indeed the most effective solution for those of you who have problems with the appearance of your teeth. However, whether the veneer lasts for long depends on your habit of maintaining oral and dental health.
As much as possible, avoid habits and consumption of foods that risk causing tooth veneers to break. Visit the dentist regularly to monitor the condition of the veneers and detect damage as early as possible.
