Veneers are a popular way to correct minor cosmetic concerns and transform your smile into a beautiful one. They can enhance the shape, color, and even size of your teeth, and once you’ve got your red carpet-worthy smile, there’s only one question left: How long will it last?
That’s just the question that our expert team at The Masters Dental Group in San Antonio, Texas, is here to answer.
Veneers are intended to be permanent, and once you get veneers, you’ll always need them. This is due to how your teeth are prepped when you get them: Your dentist removes a tiny bit of enamel to make space for your new veneers. Removing some enamel ensures a snug fit and roughs up the tooth surface so your veneers bond securely.
Even though they’re intended to be a permanent addition to your smile, you may need them replaced or repaired over time. Like your natural enamel, porcelain veneers are susceptible to damage — such as chips, cracks, or stains — from things like:
According to a 2018 study, the average lifespan of veneers is 10 years. But with the right oral care, veneers can last upwards of 20 years. Although 10-20 years is a big range, the key to maintaining your veneers is a solid oral care routine.
The best way to protect your veneers is to adopt oral care habits that keep your teeth clean and protect them from damage. Here are a few strategies to keep your veneers in tip-top shape:
Even with your best efforts, replacement is inevitable at some point, but these tips can increase your chance that the replacement isn’t quite so soon.
Veneers are a commitment, but for many people, the 10 — or 20! — years with your veneers are worth it. You might consider veneers if you have multiple problem areas you want to address at once.
For instance, you can hide minor flaws like gaps or chips, enhance the shade of your teeth, and even correct the appearance of teeth that you think look too small. All veneers are custom-made to help you reach your specific aesthetic goals.
It’s not just about appearances, though. Feeling good about your smile can affect other areas of your life, including your social life and work life. Many enjoy the self-confidence boost — and even an increased career satisfaction — that comes from sharing your dazzling smile with the world.
Simply put, when you love your smile, you smile more.
Are you considering veneers to improve your smile? Call our office at 210-349-4424 to schedule your veneer consultation today.
