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Veneers can be a great way to transform your smile into a gorgeous new state. While this cosmetic dental treatment offers long-lasting results, you can expect your veneers to need replacement eventually. However, proper hygiene and maintenance can help your veneers to last for fifteen years or more before you need to replace them. Here’s some information about veneers along with a few best practices for ensuring that your investment lasts for as long as possible.
How Do Veneers Work?
Veneers are thin shells made from high-quality materials that imitate the ideal appearance of natural tooth structure. These versatile appliances are used to conceal dental defects like chips, cracks, stains, and gaps and can sometimes be used to reshape misshapen teeth or address alignment issues without orthodontic treatment.
Veneers are typically placed in as few as two appointments. During the first, your dentist will numb the area being treated with a local anesthetic before removing about half a millimeter of enamel from the teeth receiving veneers. They will then take bite impressions before placing temporary veneers and sending you on your way. The second appointment will happen about two weeks later when your permanent veneers are completed. During this visit, your dentist will remove the temporary ones before cementing the permanent set into place, giving you a beautiful new smile.
How Can I Make My Veneers Last Longer?
Veneers can fail sooner due to factors like wear and tear, damage, or oral infections. A few tips for making your appliances last longer include:
- Practice excellent oral hygiene: Flossing, brushing, and using antibacterial mouthwash daily can prevent oral infections that require veneers to be removed for treatment.
- Wear a mouthguard during sports: This can prevent oral injuries that can damage your teeth and veneers.
- Refrain from grinding: Many people damage their teeth and veneers due to a grinding habit. Being mindful of this habit or wearing a mouthguard to bed can protect your smile from injuries.
- Don’t chew on found objects: Chewing on non-food items like writing utensils or paper clips can severely damage your teeth or veneers.
- Never use your teeth as tools: Using your bite to open packages or bottles can chip, crack, or otherwise break your teeth and veneers.
Your veneers are an investment that deserves to be protected. By taking care to practice proper hygiene and maintenance, you can keep your newly beautified smile in great shape for years to come.
About the Author
Dr. Toufeek Dabah earned his dental degree at Midwestern University in Downers Grove and stays abreast of the latest developments in his field through continuing education courses. He is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association, the Illinois State Dental Society, and the Chicago Dental Society. His office in Schaumburg, IL, offers general, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry such as veneers. For more tips on helping your veneers last longer, contact the office online or dial (847) 882-8387.