The emergence of cosmetic dentistry and the expectation of people about their smiles have made veneers a highly popular choice for both patients and dentists in recent decades. In addition to improving the smile, dentists choose veneers to correct some functionality issues of teeth.
The excellent success rate of dental veneers makes them the primary choice for most people for addressing their smile concerns. However, many think that the prosthetic is a permanent solution to their tooth’s aesthetic or functional issues. What is the reality?
Let’s analyse the durability of dental veneers.
Porcelain Veneers Vs. Composite Veneers
Modern dentistry offers two types of veneers to help patients choose the prosthetic according to their preferences on durability, cost, and visual aesthetics. Porcelain veneers are long-lasting and can exactly match the visual appeal of a natural tooth. On the other hand, composite veneers are manufactured from composite resin, and therefore, they are less durable and appealing compared to porcelain veneers.
However, composite veneers are significantly cheaper though it requires proper maintenance. While most composite veneers last for 5-7 years with excellent care, porcelain veneers can give you a gleaming smile beyond 20 years with minimal maintenance.
As you are more concerned about the durability of the veneers, let’s discuss porcelain veneers.
Why Do Porcelain Veneers Need To Be Replaced?
Porcelain veneers are highly stain-resistant prosthetics, but they can get stained over several years. While you can get teeth whitening for your natural teeth, the procedure doesn’t have any effects on porcelain veneers. Still, you can get the service of your dentist for professional cleaning and polishing of your porcelain veneers to improve the colour.
However, if the dentist finds that professional cleaning and polishing can’t help you ensure an even tone for your natural teeth and porcelain veneer, they may ask you to replace the prosthetic. Additionally, porcelain veneers are highly strong and do not easily break or chip. However, if the prosthetic chips or breaks due to pressure, it is difficult to repair it.
In such cases, your dentist will replace the porcelain veneer to restore your smile.
Porcelain Veneer Care Tips For Lasting Results
With good care and maintenance, you can ensure lasting results for your prosthetics – sometimes, lifelong. The following tips can help you ensure proper care for your prosthetic:
- Brush at least two times a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Floss between teeth and veneer daily.
- Use non-alcoholic and non-astringent based mouthwashes.
- Avoid chewing hard foods using the prosthetic.
- Make regular dental visits for professional cleaning and polishing of the veneer.
Even though porcelain is a strong material, using a soft-bristled toothbrush for brushing avoids scratches on the surfaces of your veneer. Scratches can bring down the ability of the prosthetic to resist stains. Also, use nonabrasive toothpaste to brush your mouth.
Keep in mind that your natural tooth below the veneer also should be decay and infection-free to ensure lasting results for the prosthetic. Therefore, you should ensure overall oral hygiene and health.
Final Thoughts
Your care and oral hygienic practices can help you get long-lasting results with your porcelain veneers. After all, good oral care practices incentivise you in various ways, from better general health to minimal dental infection issues.