If you’re considering improving your smile, then dental veneers may be your best option. Porcelain veneers and composite laminate veneers are popular choices for those looking to achieve a straighter, whiter appearance in their teeth without the use of orthodontics or braces. If you are considering veneers, then you may be wondering, “How long do veneers last?”.
Whether porcelain or composite is best suited to meet one’s needs depends on individual factors – so it’s important to make an informed decision about investing in this cosmetic dentistry procedure along with advice from your dentist as its success can span many years if maintained correctly.
How long will your veneers last?
With proper care, dental veneers can last for many years. Porcelain laminate veneers last up to a decade, while composite resin varieties commonly remain vibrant for 4-8 years – enabling beautiful teeth and renewed confidence!
But many variables come into play when determining the length of time your veneers will last, including:
- the type you choose to use (composite or porcelain)
- how well you care for them day-to-day
- how often you book appointments and see your dentist for routine cleans and dental check-ups
The difference between composite and porcelain
Composite veneers are made from a mix of resin and glass and is meticulously applied to a tooth, one layer at a time. In comparison, porcelain veneers are more like thin shells of porcelain that are bonded to the fronts of teeth.
Both styles have benefits for cosmetic dentistry and can improve the appearance of your smile, but may differ on things such as price, durability, and ease of application. For example, composite veneers can be applied to teeth in a single visit, while porcelain veneers may require two to four visits.
Do dental veneers need to be replaced?
Ultimately, all veneers will likely need to be replaced by your cosmetic dentist. But with proper care and treatment, some can last up to 12 years before needing replacement.
How to tell if your dental veneers need replacing:
Over time, dental veneers need to be replaced if:
- Your gums begin to pull back, exposing the margin between your tooth and the veneer. You can spot this by closely inspecting for a fine brown line where you suspect the margin to be.
- Your veneers look or feel chipped. This is a normal occurrence as the porcelain or composite may weaken under the pressure of daily use.
How are they replaced?
Replacing dental veneers is a simple process. Your cosmetic dentist will delicately remove any current bonding agents and retake impressions of your teeth. With modern technology, new veneers can be quickly crafted and precisely customised to match the colour and contour of your other teeth, so you won’t have to worry about your newly replaced veneers looking out of place in your mouth.
After that, the new dental veneers will be securely bonded onto the surface of your natural teeth similar to when they were first placed.
It is important to note that some enamel may have worn over time or have to be removed. In some cases, this process can leave behind insufficient enamel in order for a replacement veneer. In these instances, a crown can be provided as an effective substitute.
How long do composite veneers last?
Composite veneers are quickly regaining popularity as a more durable option than they used to be. While they can last 5 to 7 years on average.
By taking proper care of composite veneers it may be possible to extend their life span and make sure that their excellent look remains for as long as possible. This includes regular brushing with a nonabrasive toothpaste and abstaining from chewing on hard objects or drinking large amounts of staining drinks like black coffee, tea, or red wine without cleaning your mouth soon after.
In other words, it is important that you keep regular professional visits with your dentist, who will monitor the condition of your veneers and tell you when it is time for them to be replaced. This way, you can be sure that your smile remains attractive for years to come.
How long do porcelain veneers last?
Porcelain veneers are very resilient and long-lasting if they receive proper care and attention. A properly fitted porcelain veneer can remain in good condition for 10 to 15 years, and sometimes even longer than that.
But, since the gum tissue to which veneers are attached is living, the natural processes of aging can affect their health over time. In particular, receding gums may eventually result in the need for replacement. That is why it’s very important to take good care of your dental hygiene in order to keep your veneers looking beautiful and lasting as long as possible.
How long do veneers last on front teeth?
Regardless of the location of your mouth, your front teeth veneers can last anywhere between 5-15 years on average, depending on your chosen material, day-to-day oral care and hygiene, and how often you visit your dentist for professional cleaning. Reducing habits such as teeth grinding or eating foods that are bad for your teeth can also help.
More from our Sunshine Coast dental team
Dentistry on Coolum offers you the opportunity to enhance your smile. Our composite and porcelain veneers will help fill in gaps between teeth and straighten them for a confident smile and appearance you’re proud to shine.
Dental veneers can provide you with a durable solution that can last many years, regardless of the type you choose to use– all without any invasive surgical procedure.
With our top-notch service and advanced technology, we will provide you with an enhanced, beautiful smile that can restore your confidence. Take advantage of our dental services today and give yourself the perfect smile!
Learn more about either porcelain or composite veneers on our dedicated service pages, or contact us and talk to a friendly member of our team about booking an appointment for honest advice.
