Our smiles are such a huge part of how we present ourselves to the world. Being able to flash those pearly whites with confidence – it just makes everything a little easier. That’s where porcelain veneers come in. These nifty shells cover up imperfections like stains and chips on your natural teeth. The ceramic material looks completely natural, ensuring your smile is picturesque.
Factors that Affect How Long Porcelain Veneers Last
1. Type of Veneer
When it comes to veneers, you’ve got a couple of options – porcelain or composite. But if you’re looking for something that’ll really go the distance, porcelain is the better choice. While the composite kind might only last 5-7 years, high-quality porcelain veneers can keep your smile looking fresh for up to 20 years or more with the right care.
2. Skill of the Dentist
You can have the best veneers, but if they’re not put on right, they won’t last nearly as long. That’s why it’s so important to go with a cosmetic dentist who really knows their stuff when it comes to cosmetic work. An experienced pro will make sure those veneers fit like a glove and seal them up properly. Get it done right the first time, and you won’t have to worry about replacements for years and years.
3. Your Oral Hygiene
Veneers may be tough, but they still need some TLC to stick around for the long haul. You need to stay on top of your oral hygiene – brushing and flossing twice a day like clockwork. Healthy gums and teeth create a solid foundation, so your veneers have a sturdy home base.
4. Diet and Habits
Some pesky habits can do a number on your veneers over time. This includes things like crunching on ice cubes and chewing on pen caps or your fingernails. One little chip or crack, and suddenly, you’re back at square one. The same goes for what you’re putting in your mouth on the regular. There are too many staining culprits like coffee, red wine, or cigarettes, and those pristine white veneers won’t be so pristine anymore.
5. Trauma
Any kind of serious facial impact – whether it’s from sports, accidents, objects near you, or just being in the wrong place at the wrong time – puts veneers at major risk. If you’re into contact sports or just tend to be a bit clumsy, a mouthguard is an absolute must. It’ll shield the veneers from any rogue elbows, balls, or sidewalks coming their way.
6. Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)
The gnashing and grinding that some people do at night without even realizing it is very strenuous on veneers. All that pressure and friction can cause chips and cracks. Thus if you’re a tooth-grinder, definitely talk to your dentist in Downtown Austin about getting yourself a nightguard. At the end of the day, veneers are an investment. And, like any investment, you’ve got to protect it from potential threats.
Veneers are an asset, but one that pays dividends every single day when done right. At Toothbar, we’re veneer veterans who know this procedure inside and out. From start to finish, we’ll treat your smile makeover with the true expertise and professional care it deserves. So don’t settle for subpar when it comes to something this important; contact us or talk directly to one of our representatives at 512-949-8202.