Veneers can last longer depending on the type of material used and the level of care you provide.
It can be difficult to share an unguarded smile when you’re feeling self-conscious about dental imperfections. Fortunately, porcelain veneers offer a solution by covering the front of your teeth with natural-looking, tooth-coloured shells that conceal cosmetic issues and create the appearance of straighter, whiter teeth.
For many, this is a significant investment, so it’s natural to seek assurance that their veneers will look great and remain functional for many years. If you’re considering porcelain veneers in Melbourne, your Sunshine dentist may present you with two common options: composite veneers or porcelain veneers.
Both types of veneers offer distinct advantages. But how long do porcelain veneers last, and what factors contribute to their durability? Read this article to explore the lifespan of both types of veneers. It will help you make an informed decision on which option is right for you, and you can choose accordingly.
What are Teeth Veneers?
Dental veneers are a widely sought-after cosmetic and restorative procedure aimed at enhancing the appearance of your smile. They can address various common dental concerns, like:
- Discoloured or stained teeth
- Broken, chipped or cracked teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Crooked, oddly shaped or eroded teeth
- Minor misalignments or appearance issues
- Aesthetic improvement of fillings or old bonding
Veneers are generally applied to the upper teeth, as these are the most visible when you talk or smile. The number of veneers you need will depend on your specific goals, budget, and the desired result.
Some patients may need just one or two bonded veneers to fix chipped or damaged teeth. On the other hand, others may choose a complete smile makeover to transform the look of their smiles.
Different Types of Veneer and Their Longevity
There are two primary types of veneers:
Both options are popular for improving the appearance of teeth, but they differ in materials, longevity, and other factors.
The lifespan of veneers depends on the type of material you choose, the quality of those materials, the expertise of your cosmetic dentist, and how well you maintain them.
Veneers can last anywhere from a few years to over a decade. The lifespan depends on the material and the level of care they receive. Let’s discuss them in detail:
Porcelain Veneers
Lifespan: 12–15 years average
Porcelain veneers are an excellent match for natural tooth enamel, offering similar translucent and reflective properties. These custom-made veneers are crafted by an expert dentist in a dental lab, using impressions of your teeth.
Initially your dentist will work closely with you to choose the ideal shape and shade for your smile. It helps them to design your veneers that fits your goals, needs and budget. They may create a trial smile or wax-up so you can preview, and test drive the result before committing.
Once you are satisfied with the design, the dentist will remove a thin layer of enamel (generally between 0.2mm and 0.5mm, about the thickness of a fingernail) to accommodate the veneers. In some cases, minimal or no preparation is needed if the enamel is already missing.
Porcelain veneers are popular as they are resistant to staining and highly durable. A recent review of studies revealed that porcelain veneers generally last over 10 years in most cases, provided your teeth are properly prepared before the veneers are applied.
Composite Veneers
Lifespan: 5–6 years average
Composite veneers are applied in layers directly onto the tooth surface by your dentist. Your cosmetic dentist in Sunshine chooses the right shade of composite resin to matches the natural colour of your tooth.
One of the benefits of composite veneers is that they are more affordable than porcelain options and easier to repair. According to a research study, composite veneers generally last five years or more.
How to Care for Veneers: Tips from Your Sunshine Dentist
It’s essential to follow the care recommendations provided by your Sunshine dentist if you want to extend the lifespan of your veneers. Here is a list of some essential tips that can give you longer-lasting results:
Brush your teeth twice daily and floss them regularly.
Maintain a balanced diet while limiting excess sugar intake
Use a mouthguard during contact sports or any activities that could pose a risk to your mouth.
Exercise caution when eating hard foods, especially with porcelain veneers.
Use a night guard if you tend to grind or clench your teeth while sleeping.
Avoid common staining agents like coffee, red wine, tea, and dark sauces, particularly with composite veneers.
Schedule regular check-ups and oral hygiene treatments at your dental clinic every six months.
You can keep your veneers in great condition for long if you maintain a good mouth care routine and follow these tips.
More From Your Sunshine Dentist for Porcelain Veneers in Melbourne
While many dentists can place your veneers, it’s beneficial to choose the expert who allows you to test drive your new smile before finalising your treatment plan. You can see, feel and experience the impact of veneers on your smile before committing to the treatment. It will help you avoid spending money on results that you may not fully love.
Sunshine Dental Group invests in innovative techniques and procedures to offer you a result that is nothing less than the best. If you have any questions about dental veneers, contact our team at (03) 9133 8657.
