Porcelain veneers in Tallahassee have the power to transform your smile, taking it from so-so to so-amazing. By disguising all the things you don’t like about your teeth, they can boost your confidence and make you the envy of all your friends. You might worry, though, about the lifespan of porcelain veneers. Is it really worth spending all that money if there is the chance that they’ll become chipped, cracked, or stained? The good news is that veneers can last a long time, and there are things you can do to keep them in great shape.
The Average Lifespan of Veneers
Porcelain is a sturdy, so it can last a long time as part of your smile transformation. In fact, with proper care, veneers usually last for 10 to 15 years before they need to be replaced.
This doesn’t mean that your veneers won’t last more than 15 years or fewer than 10. The length of time that you’re able to show off that gorgeous grin of yours depends largely on you and your habits.
Oral Hygiene Is Essential for Making Veneers Last
Veneers can protect the fronts of your teeth from decay, but that doesn’t mean you have permission to slack off on your oral hygiene routine. With veneers, keeping your mouth clean is just as important as ever. Your veneers may need to be removed if you develop cavities on the teeth that have them. Keep in mind, too, that if poor habits lead to gum recession, your veneers will start to look bad because they no longer meet the gum line.
Therefore, be sure you brush at least twice a day, floss, and perhaps even use a rinse for some extra bacteria-fighting power. Also, visit your dentist every six months so you can get a professional dental cleaning and checkup.
More Tips for Caring for Your Veneers
Keeping your veneers in great shape isn’t complicated, but there are some basic guidelines you should follow:
- Limit staining foods and drinks. Porcelain is resistant to discoloration, but that doesn’t mean it won’t get stained over time. Try not to consume a lot of coffee, wine, or dark berries.
- Wear a mouth guard. If you love to play sports, talk to a “dentist near me” about getting a custom guard to protect your teeth (and your veneers).
- Don’t bite on hard things. Some people use their teeth as a tool to cut things, while others like to munch on ice. Don’t! Exposing your teeth to hard substances might chip your veneers.
- Address bruxism. Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can shorten your veneers’ lifespan. Wearing a mouth guard at night may be able to stop the problem.
Ready to be the proud owner of a new smile? Porcelain veneers can have you winking at yourself in the mirror for many years to come.
About and Boyd Dental Associates
As your cosmetic dentist in Tallahassee, the team at and Boyd loves to help patients love their smiles. If you have questions about porcelain veneers, please contact us at 850-878-4117.