15 Apr How Often Do Veneers Need to Be Replaced?
Dental veneers are a wonderful option for addressing a wide range of cosmetic concerns and improving the appearance of smiles. Dentists can use veneers to correct tooth color, shape, size, symmetry, and spacing. Dental veneers can also be used to reinforce tooth structure by correcting minor surface imperfections, such as chips and cracks.
The best dental veneers are made from high-quality, durable, stain resistant porcelain. When properly applied by a qualified dentist and properly cared for by the dental patient, veneers can last for as long as a decade. But they’re not guaranteed to last that long. There are a number of factors that can shorten their lifespan. Since there’s no guarantee how long your veneers will last, it’s important to know the signs that it’s time to replace them.
Signs your veneers need to be replaced
Practicing proper daily oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly are the best things you can do to ensure that your dental veneers last as long as possible. During your dental visits, your dentist will help keep an eye on the condition of your teeth and your veneers and alert you to any adjustments you may need to make to your routines. For example, if your dentist notices signs of bruxism, they may recommend a mouth guard to protect your teeth and veneers while you sleep. Regular dental visits are an important part of helping your veneers last the full ten years.
Your dentist will also help keep an eye out for signs that your veneers need to be replaced. Although some of the signs, such as stains and discoloration, may point to a more cosmetic concern, others could result in a weakened tooth structure that increases the risk of dental complications. Your veneers may need to be replaced if you notice any of the following signs:
- Veneers are chipped, cracked, damaged, or worn down
- Damaged or decayed tooth structure beneath the veneer
- Veneer easily lifts from tooth’s surface
- Veneers become dull and lose their luster
- Veneers become stained or discolored
Many of the same rules for proper dental care apply to caring for your veneers as well. If you want your veneers to last up to ten years, you’ll want to do everything you can to avoid the factors that potentially shorten their lifespan.
Factors that can cause early veneer failure
Certain factors can cause early failure or a shorter lifespan of your dental veneers. Most are factors you can control. Others are trickier to control, but with the help of an experienced dentist and a solid commitment to your oral health, it is possible. Factors that can cause early veneer failure include:
- Smoking or chewing tobacco
- Poor dental hygiene
- Eating sticky or hard foods
- Clenching or grinding your teeth
- Playing contact sports
- Abrasive toothpaste
- Improperly affixed veneers
- Poorly sized veneers
It’s important to note that the last two factors on the above list are the result of a less-than-precise initial placement of the veneers. This can happen when a dentist is inexperienced with veneers, rushes the process, uses low-grade materials, or lacks the precision necessary for properly affixing veneers for maximum durability and longevity.
If your veneers don’t feel right, if they feel bulky, loose, or painful, it might be time to get a dental second opinion. Whether your veneers need to be adjusted or replaced, a proper fitting and precise placement will make all the difference. Not only will it improve your smile, but it will also make you more comfortable and give you more to smile about.
Need a dental second opinion on veneers? Call Smile Designers today!
If you’re looking for a second opinion on dental veneers, we can help. Bring a copy of your dental records and any recent X-rays to your consultation, and we’ll get you set up with a full evaluation and second opinion with Dr. Armin Hage. For more information on dental veneers or any of our other dental services, give us a call at (619) 222-6000 today.