If you’ve recently invested in dental veneers, you are likely looking for ways to make sure that they last as long as possible. Caring for your veneers is key to prolonging their life and getting the most out of them. Fortunately, with a few helpful tips and the right approach, it’s easy to keep your veneers looking pristine for years to come. Keep reading to learn some simple yet effective strategies for caring for dental veneers.

What are Dental Veneers?

Veneers are coverings that fit over the front surfaces of your teeth. Technicians use high-quality dental materials, like tooth-colored composite or porcelain, to create them.

Dental veneers are cosmetic in nature. They can conceal a wide range of aesthetic imperfections, including chips, cracks, gaps, tooth discoloration and more. Veneers cover the front surfaces of your teeth to enhance your smile. They work by camouflaging cosmetic flaws.

Who Needs Them?

Anyone who wants to fix aesthetic imperfections can benefit from veneers. They are a popular choice because they look natural and help people achieve an attractive smile. People with severely damaged or discolored teeth may opt for veneers over other treatments, as they provide more of a transformation than most alternatives. They are a popular treatment for those who are looking to correct:

• Stained teeth: veneers can be used to lighten teeth that are stained
• Chipped teeth: they can restore the shape of a chipped or broken tooth
• Gaps between teeth: they can help close gaps and straighten crooked teeth, while also improving your smile

The Process of Getting Dental Veneers

The Prep

Before you get your veneers, you’ll have a preliminary appointment with your dentist to discuss which options are right for you and how many veneers you want to have placed. In some cases, if teeth are crooked or uneven, you may need to have braces before your dentist can place the veneers.

Your dentist will often take X-rays at this stage to evaluate the health of your teeth. They’ll look for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, or the need for root canals. If you have any of these conditions, you may not be a candidate for veneers.

To get accurate sizing for your veneers, at the next appointment, your dentist trims down about half of a millimeter of your tooth (they remove the enamel using a grinding tool) before they take a mold (impression) of your teeth. This mold is then sent off to the lab to create your veneers.

The Install

It typically takes between 1 and 2 weeks after your dentist creates your mold to get your veneers back from the lab.

Once your veneers are in, you can schedule an appointment to have them placed. At this appointment, your dentist evaluates the fit, shape, and coloration of the veneers to make sure they’re perfect for you.

Next, your dentist thoroughly cleans your teeth. This is important, as it keeps bacteria from being trapped under the veneer and causing decay.

After they do this, they use the grinding tool to create a rougher texture on each tooth on which a veneer is to be applied. This makes it easier for the veneer to stick to the tooth.

Your dentist then uses dental cement to bond the veneer to the tooth. They’ll use ultraviolet light to harden this cement quickly.

This second appointment (where veneers are placed) typically doesn’t last longer than 2 hours. But it might vary depending on the number of veneers being done and if a local anesthetic is used.

How Long Do They Last?

Generally, dental veneers can last anywhere from five to 15 years. It is important to note that the lifespan of your veneers will depend on how well you care for them and the quality of materials used. Porcelain veneers have a reputation for longevity. A 2018 review of multiple studies suggests that these veneers can last 10 years or longer in the vast majority of cases. Further, one study of 84 people with porcelain veneers even found that the veneers had lasted as long as 20 years.

Tips for Prolonging the Life of Your Veneers

1. Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to protect against bacteria that can damage your veneers.
2. Avoid Chewy Foods: Excessive chewing can cause your veneers to come loose or chip easily.
3. Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush as hard bristles can wear down the edges of your veneers faster.
4. Refrain from Teeth Grinding: Teeth grinding can chip, crack or loosen your veneers.
5. Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Make sure to visit your dentist every six months for professional cleanings and check-ups.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your dental veneers look good as new for many years. Taking care of your veneers is important, so be sure to practice good oral hygiene habits and visit your dentist regularly. With proper care, you can prolong the life of your veneers and maximize their effectiveness.

Make an Appointment with Premier Dentistry of Eagle

If you’re interested in getting dental veneers to improve your smile, make an appointment with Premier Dentistry of Eagle. Our experienced team is committed to helping you achieve the best results possible. We provide a variety of services, from general preventive care to cosmetic procedures and restorative treatments. Contact us today to learn more.