Do Veneers Need to Be Replaced?

If you are unhappy with how your teeth look and want to fix cosmetic issues like stains, chips, or gaps between your teeth, then porcelain veneers are an amazing solution. These tooth-colored shells feel and look natural and can help you get the perfect smile you always wanted. 

That said, veneers won't last forever. Sure, with proper care, they can last you well over a decade, but at one point, you will have to replace them. Here's when. 

Reasons You May Need to Replace Your Veneers 

Dental veneers are very strong and stain resistant and can successfully act just like your natural teeth. But, they are not indestructible, and over time, you may have to replace them due to several reasons: 

• Cracks

Dental veneers, especially porcelain ones, are quite strong and don't break easily. That said, if you suffer an accident, then the veneers might get damaged. Or, if you enjoy eating hard foods or biting on ice cubes, then this constant wear and tear will eventually crack your veneers. When that happens, you need to replace them as the crack can leave the tooth underneath the veneers exposed to bacteria and decay. 

• Stained Teeth 

Porcelain veneers are stain-resistant, but your natural teeth aren't. In time, as your natural teeth stain, you may get an uneven look. Of course, veneers can also lose their bright color, but at a slower rate than your teeth. 

The problem is that veneers don't respond to whitening treatments. So, while your teeth might get whiter after one of these treatments, your veneers will remain the same color. 

The best way to get an even look is by removing your old veneers, getting your teeth whitened, and then getting new veneers in the new shade of your natural teeth. 

• Tooth Decay

A common mistake people make is assuming that because veneers are made of porcelain, they don't need to be brushed. Veneers only cover a fraction of your tooth, leaving the upper side of your teeth, the root, and the gum line exposed to bacteria. If you neglect your oral health, then bacteria can sneak in and affect the underlying tooth. When that happens, the dentist will have to remove the veneers to treat the tooth. 

How to Make Your Veneers Last Longer 

Veneers have quite an impressive lifespan, but with proper care, they can last even up to 20 years. And the good news is that taking care of your veneers is incredibly easy:

• Brush your teeth twice a day and floss every night 
• See your dentist at least once a year for routine check-ups
• Don't use your teeth as tools
• Limit the consumption of hard foods
• Limit the consumption of staining foods
• Use a non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching your veneers 

‍Keep Your Beautiful Smile for Longer 

At Clermont Family Dentistry, we can help you maintain your smile healthy and beautiful for years to come. We offer everything from preventive care and professional cleanings to cosmetic dentistry and dental implants. 

Contact us right now to book your appointment.