If you are thinking about getting veneers as your subsequent dental treatment, you probably have many questions about their existence. To help you get a grip on dental veneers, this article discusses the basics about veneers, types of veneers, and how to make them last.

What are Veneers?

Also widely known as dental veneers, they are thin shells of tooth-colored material that cover the front surfaces of your teeth. They are made specifically to match your natural teeth’ color, shape, and size.

If your teeth are discolored, stained, chipped, misaligned, crooked, and have a gap between them, dental veneers are your best and safest option for restoring their natural appearance. Dental veneers are the most commonly used cosmetic treatment in the field of cosmetic dentistry that gives you a “Hollywood Style Smile.”

Furthermore, dental veneers can last for years, if not decades. With proper oral hygiene and maintenance, they are far less expensive than other cosmetic dental treatments that can quickly drain your bank account.

Types of Veneers

There are various types of veneers available on the market. Consult with your dentist first to determine which of them will best suit your needs and improve your oral health while also considering their individual benefits and drawbacks.

Five commonly used types of dental veneers are as follows:

1. Porcelain Veneers

• Porcelain veneers are made of ceramic and are shaped to fit the surface of your teeth perfectly. They outlast all other veneers and are more stain-resistant than composite veneers
• If you choose porcelain veneers, your teeth will look the most natural because they perfectly match your natural teeth’ color, shape, and size and blend in. Porcelain veneers are widely regarded as the most natural-looking dental veneers.
  Being effective comes with a price point. Porcelain veneers cost more than other types of veneers. However, the price point is tolerable as long as your smile is enhanced and as natural as it can get.

2. Composite Veneers

• Composite veneers are made from synthetic resin (plastic) and glass mixtures. They are less durable than porcelain veneers because they are applied to the teeth layer by layer. They also stain faster than other veneers, necessitating more maintenance and visits to the dentist’s office. Furthermore, because they are thick and bulky, they do not produce the most natural results.
• On the plus side, composite veneers can repair chipped and crooked teeth and do not remove much enamel from the teeth when applied. They are also less expensive than porcelain veneers. In addition, if any of their areas become chipped, composite veneers can be repaired rather than replaced.

3. Palatal Veneers

• Palatal veneers are used to restore the inside surfaces of the anterior and posterior teeth. With palatal veneers, only the damaged portion of your tooth can be fixed quickly without affecting the entire tooth.
• Palatal veneers are available in various materials, including porcelain and composite.

4. Lumineers

• Lumineers is a brand of veneer that is commonly referred to as “no-prep veneers.” They are made of feldspathic pressable porcelain. They are ultra-thin (0.2 mm) and appear more realistic than porcelain veneers.
• Lumineers do not require any tooth reduction or contouring, making them one of the most popular veneers used to improve the appearance of one’s teeth and smile.
• But, with lumineers, you have to be extra careful because they are more prone to chipping than other traditional veneers.

5. Removable Veneers

• Removable veneers are precisely what their name implies: they are easily removed, non-invasive, and non-permanent. Furthermore, they are less expensive than all other veneers and do not require enamel removal.
• Removable veneers, however, are not known for their natural appearance and must be replaced regularly.

How Long Do Veneers Last?

Veneers, like any other restorative dental treatment, have a lifespan. However, the longevity of these varies and requires proper maintenance.

1. Porcelain veneers have an estimated lifespan of 10 years, but with proper care and maintenance, they can last up to 20-30 years.
2. Composite veneers have an average lifespan of 3-5 years. However, because their material is not as durable, they are more prone to stains.
3. Since Lumineers are highly durable, they can last up to 20 years with proper oral hygiene.
4. Removable veneers have a 5-year average lifespan.

One thing is certain about any type of veneer: it will only last as long as it is appropriately cared for. A few changes in your lifestyle are required for this to occur.

Habits That Can Prolong the Lifespan of Your Dental Veneers

Though the material of veneers is a crucial factor in determining their lifespan, there is another way to make them last longer- practice good habits.

You can take good care of your dental veneers with the help of a few good habits and a few minor (if not significant) changes in your lifestyle.

1. Good Oral Hygiene

Getting veneers does not guarantee that your teeth will never decay or be damaged. Instead, it means that you must practice good oral and dental hygiene now more than ever. Brushing twice a day for two minutes, flossing once, and getting regular dental checkups and cleaning treatments are essential for maintaining good dental hygiene and extending the lifespan of your dental veneers.

2. Avoid Chewing Hard Surface Food

Avoiding hard foods like candies, nuts, and ice can also help your veneers last longer.

3. Wear Mouth Protection

When you take part in contact sports, wearing mouth protection will prevent your veneers and natural teeth from chipping, getting crooked, or falling off.

4. Try Not To Grind Your Teeth.

Grinding your teeth is a sure way to damage your dental veneers. Wearing a nighttime mouth guard if you have a habit of grinding your teeth while sleeping can help.

5. Use Your Teeth As Tools As Little As Possible

Stop using your teeth to open objects you cannot open with your hands, such as bottles.

The most common dental cosmetic procedure is dental veneers due to the long-term benefits, less time in the dentist’s chair, and a better smile. Furthermore, it can repair chipped, crooked, and misaligned teeth while also improving the appearance of your teeth and smile.
Anderson Lake Dental Clinic in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, has a team of qualified general and cosmetic dentists who frequently apply dental veneers to transform crooked smiles into attractive ones. If you want to repair your chipped teeth and laugh freely, make an appointment with us today.

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