Are Veneers Permanent?

Veneers have become a widely accepted form of treatment in dentistry and is something that can be done to improve and change a person’s tooth color, shape, and smile in general. There are many ways to complete veneers, but let’s start with what they are.

What Are Veneers?

Veneers are thin pieces of porcelain that your dentist places over the front of your existing tooth. These are different than crowns which go all the way around your tooth. Veneers are much more conservative than other treatment options like crowns, but still create a significant, positive change for many people. 

How Long Do Veneers Last?

Depending on the condition of a person’s teeth, veneers usually last 10-15 years. But, with good home care, they can last the rest of your life! There are multiple factors that can affect how long veneers last, but if the dentist applies the veneers properly, the risk of damaging them is minimal. 

Most types of veneers are permanent and the procedure itself is irreversible. The conventional preparation (0.75-1mm) and minimal preparation (0.3-0.5mm) of the teeth for veneers involves removing a small amount of enamel from the existing tooth structure, so when the porcelain is cemented in place, the teeth don’t look too bulky or have a ledge. 

There is a “no prep” veneer option which is reversible, but this is not for everyone. Since you are only placing porcelain on top of the teeth without any preparation, the teeth can look bulky or too big after the veneers are placed. There will also be a ledge where the porcelain stops, and this can collect plaque and bacteria that cause cavities. Therefore, the “no prep” veneers are only indicated for a select number of people and good oral hygiene is crucial. 

Taking Proper Care of Your Veneers

To get the most out of your veneers, here are some tips to help extend the lifespan of your veneers:

• Excellent oral hygiene is a must! Make sure you get check-ups by your dentist at least twice per year. 
• Address any habits of grinding your teeth. This can include having your dentist make you a nightguard to protect the restorations. 
• Finally, avoid chewing hard or sticky foods with the veneers directly. Excess pressure on the veneers can cause them to chip, loosen, or even fall off. 

Considering Veneers? Contact Dr. Erwin Today!

If you feel you have any imperfections in your teeth and want to consider veneers as an option to improve your smile, reach out to Alexander Erwin, DDS for a consultation. Solana Beach dentist, Dr. Erwin, will let you know if veneers are an option for you and can discuss the best treatment options for you! Call (858) 755-1189 today!