The Lifespan of Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are thin, tooth-shaped covers that are cemented to the front-facing side of teeth. These prosthetics cover any flaws on the surface of teeth, instantly improving the appearance of teeth that are covered with them.

Dental veneers are quite popular with cosmetic dentists, and they can be used to fix a wide range of issues including:

• Crooked teeth
• Spaces between teeth
• Stains and discoloration caused by tooth decay, being overexposed to fluoride or using antibiotics
• Chipped teeth
• Short or deformed teeth

Getting the most out of dental veneers

Veneers are designed to serve mainly cosmetic purposes and they are not as sturdy as dental crowns. Veneers can become chipped or damaged when the restorations are not properly cared for. Veneers last about 10-15 years on average, depending on how well the person takes care of them and the materials that they are made out of.

Avoiding bad habits that can damage veneers also goes a long way when it comes to taking care of these restorations. Habits like chewing hard foods, opening packages with teeth, or teeth grinding will chip away at the longevity of veneers often forcing the wearer to replace them prematurely. Depending on the material a veneer is made from, it can be susceptible to staining. Composite veneers are the most likely to pick up stains while porcelain veneers are highly resistant to stains.

Veneers are not designed to last a lifetime, so those who get them will eventually need replacements. Here are some simple things patients can do to get the most out of their veneers:

1. Practice good oral hygiene

Good oral hygiene goes a long way when it comes to taking care of veneers. Regularly cleaning the mouth helps to prevent stains from forming on veneers and it keeps teeth and gums healthy, as well. Dentists recommend brushing two times a day and flossing each day to keep veneers and the teeth they cover in good condition.

2. Use protective gear

Veneers can become damaged due to blows to the face during physical activities or an accident. Using protective gear, like a mouthguard or helmet, reduces the risk of such damage occurring. Protective gear like nightguards can be used to protect the teeth of those who grind them during sleep.

3. Avoid using your teeth as tools

Many people habitually use their teeth for things they are not designed for like loosening up knots, opening packages or opening bottles. Such things can easily leave veneers chipped, and it can introduce germs into the person's mouth.

4. Get treatment for bruxism

Teeth grinding can wreak havoc on veneers and dentists often do not recommend them to people with severe bruxism. Anyone who is determined to get veneers but grinds their teeth should first seek treatment for the condition.

Improve your smile with dental veneers

Veneers can restore your smile in as little as two trips to the dentist. Contact our Bakersfield clinic to learn more about how veneers can improve the appearance of your teeth.

Request an appointment here: https://brimhalldentalgroup.com or call Brimhall Dental Group at (661) 249-1122 for an appointment in our Bakersfield office.

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