How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last? By on July 12, 2019

If you want to mask tooth discoloration, fill in gaps, and improve the shape of your teeth, you can achieve all of these changes with just one treatment. The application of porcelain veneers allows doctors to transform your smile in just two dental appointments.

At Gulch Dental Studio in Nashville, TN, Dr. Clint Newman and Dr. Scott Harris place high quality veneers that can last for decades. In this blog post, we discuss how long porcelain veneers last, and how you can extend the lifespan of your veneers.

High Quality Materials Result in a Longer Lifespan

We want our patients to achieve beautiful, natural-looking, long-lasting results. That is why we use IPS e.max® and IPS Empress® porcelain. Porcelain veneers that are crafted from these materials can last up to 25 years.

Of course, patients need to exercise good oral health to extend the longevity of their veneers. Follow these aftercare tips to keep your veneers looking natural and new.

Do: Use a Non-abrasive Toothpaste

Before your custom veneers are placed, be sure to purchase a toothpaste that is gentle enough for use on veneers. Many patients tend to choose more abrasive toothpastes, particularly tooth whitening toothpastes. However, these products are often too harsh for veneers. Instead, try using a sensitive formula or gel toothpaste. During your visit to our Nashville practice, our doctors can provide you with more specific instructions.

Do: Use a Soft-bristled Toothbrush

Many patients don’t pay attention to toothbrush features. When purchasing a toothbrush for use on your veneers, look for one with soft-bristles. These are gentler on the veneers and teeth. Also, be sure to choose the right size toothbrush. Many manufacturers offer toothbrush heads in small, medium, and large sizes.

Do: Practice Good Oral Hygiene

It should go without saying that patients should practice good oral hygiene to extend the lifespan of their veneers. Brush twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and tartar from your veneers and natural teeth.

Do: Limit Exposure to Foods and Drinks That Stain

Certain foods and drinks, namely coffee and red wine, stain the teeth. Though veneers are more resistant to discoloration when compared to the natural teeth, they can become stained with time.

Don’t: Use Your Teeth as Tools

Many people use their teeth to break tags on clothes, open bottles, or tear open packages. This can dislodge or damage your veneers, not to mention your natural teeth.

Don’t Chew on Hard Objects

Chewing on hard objects such as ice, pen caps, or your fingernails can also damage your veneers or cause them to become loose.

Don’t: Smoke or Chew

Smoking cigarettes or the use of chewing products can stain the natural teeth and your veneers. In addition, these products increase your risk of gum disease and recession, which can adversely affect the appearance of your veneers.

Don’t: Grind Your Teeth

Grinding your teeth can cause your veneers to become damaged or dislodged. If you grind your teeth, we may recommend that you wear a mouthguard at night.