Porcelain veneers are an excellent option for transforming your smile, offering durability and aesthetic improvements. However, like any dental restoration, they require proper care to ensure longevity. If you’re considering porcelain veneers or already have them, you might be wondering: Do porcelain veneers last forever? Let’s explore the answer and some essential care recommendations to maximize the lifespan of your veneers.
Do Porcelain Veneers Last Forever?
Porcelain veneers are renowned for their durability, but they are not indestructible. Porcelain veneers can last 10 years or more with proper care. Factors such as oral hygiene practices, dietary habits, and regular dental check-ups play a significant role in determining the lifespan of your veneers.
Reasons Your Porcelain Veneers May Not Last
Most patients find that their porcelain veneers last a very long time. However, in some cases, your porcelain veneers may become damaged. The most common reasons that porcelain veneers don’t last include:
- Poor dental hygiene:
- If you develop decay underneath your porcelain veneers, your natural teeth will become weakened, and your veneers can’t grip properly anymore. This can cause veneers to loosen.
- Destructive oral habits:
- If you chew on pens, ice, or other hard surfaces, you can damage your veneers. To protect your restorations, you should never use your teeth as tools.
- Accidents:
- Any trauma to the mouth can cause damage to porcelain veneers, just like regular teeth. If you have porcelain veneers, we recommend using a mouth guard when playing contact sports.
- Teeth grinding:
- Consistent teeth grinding can wear down and damage natural teeth and porcelain veneers over time. If you grind your teeth, you will need to wear a night guard in order to protect your veneers.
Tips for Prolonging the Lifespan of Porcelain Veneers
- Toothbrush:
- For effective cleaning, consider using an electric toothbrush. If you prefer manual brushing, opt for a toothbrush with soft bristles to prevent damage to your veneers.
- Flossing:
- Choose from a variety of floss types, including waxed, unwaxed, woven, or dentotape, to effectively remove plaque. Avoid using plastic flosses like Glide or Easy Slide, as they may not adequately clean around your restorations.
- Toothpaste:
- Maintain the integrity of your veneers by selecting a regular, non-abrasive toothpaste. Avoid tartar control or whitening pastes, as they can dull the glaze on your restorations over time.
- Mouthwash:
- Protect the glaze of your veneers by opting for an alcohol-free mouth rinse. Alcohol-containing rinses may gradually diminish the appearance of your veneers with prolonged use.
- Recare Appointments/Hygiene Visits:
- Ensure the ongoing health and appearance of your veneers with regular hygiene visits. During these appointments, fine polishing pastes will be used to remove stains and keep your smile looking its best.
For more in depth guidance on how to increase the lifespan of your restorations, read our Porcelain Veneer Smile Care Guide.
Choosing the Right Cosmetic Dentist
Selecting a reputable cosmetic dentist and ensuring they work with a high-quality dental lab are crucial steps in ensuring your veneers are made with the best materials and placed properly. A skilled cosmetic dentist, such as Dr. John Schmid at Contemporary Cosmetic Dentistry, will assess your needs, discuss your treatment options, and ensure your veneers are custom-made to fit your unique smile. Click to see before and after pictures of veneers by Dr. Schmid
At Contemporary Cosmetic Dentistry, we are proud to partner with Aurum Dental Lab, renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship and use of top-of-the-line materials. By choosing a dentist that partners with a dental lab of such caliber, you can have confidence in the quality and longevity of your veneers.
Schedule Your Porcelain Veneers Consultation
If you want to learn more about porcelain veneers, or if you are ready to take the first step towards the smile of your dreams, contact Contemporary Cosmetic Dentistry today to schedule your complimentary consultation with Dr. Schmid. We serve patients in Bee Cave, Lakeway, and other nearby areas of Austin, Texas.
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in January 2016 and was updated on April 26, 2024.