Porcelain veneers are exceptionally strong, but they are not permanent.
When cared for properly, you can expect dental veneers to last for about ten years. Of course, some veneers will last longer and others may need to be replaced sooner, but 10 years is the average life expectancy of porcelain veneers.
At NYC Smile Design, we work with master ceramists to ensure the dental veneers we place are durable and attractive. During your routine visits, we will check each veneer to make sure it is still functionally and aesthetically pleasing, and make suggestions to replace as needed.
Why Do Veneers Have to be Replaced?
There are several reasons you may wish to replace one or more of your dental veneers. Discoloration is chief among them.
Unlike tooth enamel, porcelain veneers cannot be topically whitened. While stain-resistant, porcelain is not stain-proof and, unless steps are taken to protect them, your veneers will become discolored over time.
You can help prevent discoloration by brushing after every meal and snack, reducing your intake of dark liquids and foods, and avoiding all tobacco products.
Dental veneers are durable, but not impervious. They can be chipped cracked, or broken if they are not cared for properly. You can help prevent these issues by not chewing or biting ice, hard-candy, or non-food items. You can also help keep your dental veneers strong by following a consistent and thorough at-home oral hygiene routine.
How Long Does it Take to Replace a Porcelain Veneer?
Replacing a dental veneer can take up to three weeks. Just like your original veneer, your replacement will be sculpted to our exact specifications by our master ceramist partners. During this time, we can perform additional cosmetic procedures to help ensure a consistent appearance once your replacement veneer arrives.
How to Care for Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are cared for in the same way as your natural teeth – with just a few exceptions. Porcelain is strong, but it can scratch and scratches will impact a veneer’s ability to resist stains. To avoid scratching your dental veneers, you should brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush and use a nonabrasive toothpaste.
Brush after every meal and snack to remove particles and bacteria from veneers and make sure to brush upon waking and before going to bed as well to help prevent decay from forming underneath veneers. Flossing should be done in between teeth with veneers at least once daily – twice is ideal.
It is best to avoid mouthwash with alcohol or astringents. While modern dental bonding is strong and reliable, alcohol can, over time, loosen veneers and allow them to fall off. During your routine visits, Dr. Mello or Dr. Tabib can discuss proper care in greater detail to make sure your veneers continue to produce desirable results for years to come.
Scheduling Your Visit
Routine visits to our Manhattan dental office are important for the health of your smile and the durability of your veneers. During these visits, we can address minor issues with your veneers before they become serious problems, allowing us to repair as possible and replace as needed to help maintain a consistent and attractive look. If you are concerned with a specific veneer in between visits, we would be happy to schedule you in and address the issue on a stand-alone basis as well.
Experienced, effective, and thorough, our New York City cosmetic dentists are committed to helping you achieve the smile of your dreams. To learn more about porcelain veneers or any other cosmetic service, please call 212-452-3344 or visit our website to schedule a consultation today.
Topics:
