Are Veneers Permanent?
Veneers are custom-crafted coverings that fit over your existing teeth. They are designed to improve the appearance of discoloured, stained, chipped, or broken teeth. Like other cosmetic procedures, veneers are usually only possible if you aren’t undergoing treatment for gum disease or extensive cavities.
Although veneers may eventually require replacement, they are crafted to endure for an extended duration. They're often referred to as a permanent solution because, usually, once applied, they can’t be taken off.
Your care regimen and the quality of the materials used in their creation can impact the longevity of your veneers. Typically, veneers can maintain their lustre and function for up to 15 years. Your dentist can walk you through your veneer choices and guide you to the most beneficial solution for your smile.
What Are Veneers?
Veneers are custom-crafted, delicate shells applied to the surface of teeth. They offer a cosmetic enhancement to help amplify the allure of your smile. They are a popular choice for individuals seeking to address issues like stubborn discoloration unresponsive to whitening treatments, or aesthetic flaws such as chipped, broken, or imperfect teeth.
A dental veneer differs from a crown in that it only graces the front of a tooth rather than encompassing its entire surface. It doesn't contribute to structural reinforcement and is primarily for aesthetic enhancement. Even with veneers, tooth decay remains a threat, so you must work to maintain oral hygiene.
Typically, you can expect two or more visits to your dentist to complete the veneer process. The first appointment usually involves your dentist expertly sculpting enamel and readying it for the veneer. They also take a precise mould of your teeth, which are then sent off to be crafted into your custom-made veneers.
Types of Veneers
Various dental veneers exist, each differentiated by the type of material utilized.
Porcelain Veneers
Crafted from a thin, translucent substance, porcelain veneers are generally considered the most durable type of veneer. Their lifespan usually exceeds about 10 years.
Composite Veneers
Opting for composite veneers can be a more budget-friendly choice, though they generally offer a lifespan of about 5 to 7 years. These veneers are crafted from a composite resin that can either be applied directly onto your teeth, known as direct composite veneers, or created separately and then affixed to your teeth using the same composite resin, referred to as indirect composite veneers.
Even though the same materials are used, indirect composite veneers generally have greater resistance to cracks or abrasions than their direct composite counterparts.
One main difference between direct and indirect composite veneers is the level of involvement needed for the indirect option. Typically, more tooth material requires removal so that the new veneers don’t look too bulky when affixed to your teeth in the future.
Are Veneers Permanent?
While their lifespan may be finite, composite and porcelain veneers are considered permanent dental procedures as their removal or reversal is typically not feasible.
If you're hesitant about making a long-term commitment to traditional veneers, an alternative could be on the table. Temporary veneers, often called snap-on veneers, provide the same coverage as their permanent counterparts but are designed for short-term use.
The novelty of temporary veneers means substantial research into their efficiency and safety is still underway. For a more tailored insight, feel free to consult with your dentist.
Taking Care of Your Veneers
Their material can impact the lifespan of veneers, be it porcelain or composite, and how well they're cemented to your teeth. Keeping the underlying teeth healthy and ensuring the longevity of your veneers involves mindful care.
Key pointers to bear in mind for maintaining veneers are:
- Brushing and flossing regularly
- Avoid teeth-staining foods and drinks
- Use a soft toothbrush
- Avoid chewing hard foods and objects
- Refrain from smoking or using tobacco products
Much like caring for your own pearly whites, adhere to the guidance of the Canadian Dental Association when it comes to brushing and flossing. A routine of brushing twice and flossing once every day can act as a strong defense against tooth decay sneaking up on your teeth around or behind your veneers. If decay does set in, your dentist may need to detach the veneer to repair the tooth.
How Markham Dental Can Help
In the realm of cosmetic dentistry, there's no such thing as a one-size-fits-all solution. Beyond veneers, options like teeth whitening could also enhance your smile and confidence. Since your smile is as unique as you are, your solutions should be unique too!
Our team at Markham Dental is dedicated to personalized care and equipped to suggest the perfect smile-enhancing treatment tailored to your needs. Book a consult today and step closer to the smile of your dreams.