Veneers are thin shells of dental-grade porcelain that are custom-made to fit over the front of teeth and bonded in place using dental cement. Veneers offer a long-lasting solution to a variety of cosmetic dental concerns, including:Discolored teeth – particularly in cases when discoloration is resistant to teeth whitening treatmentsChipped, cracked, or broken teeth – porcelain veneers can be used to cover up minor chips, cracks, or breaks in teeth, restoring their appearanceMisaligned and gapped teeth – veneers can be used to correct misaligned teeth and gaps between teeth without the need for bracesIrregularly shaped teeth – veneers can restore a person’s smile by improving teeth that have different shapesIt is important to remember that porcelain veneers are only a cosmetic solution and do not address problems such as tooth decay or gum disease in the teeth and gums beneath them. Anyone who suffers from any underlying dental issue should have that issue treated by a dentist before getting porcelain veneers.

Dental veneers are thin overlays, typically made from either porcelain or composite resin, that are applied with dental cement to the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance and function. With proper care, dental veneers typically last 10 to 15 years. Their longevity depends on several factors, including material, oral hygiene practices, and certain habits like excessive teeth grinding.Porcelain veneers are resistant to stains and highly durable, often lasting 15 years or more. With proper care, including regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene practices, veneers can sometimes last up to 20 years. Composite resin veneers, while not as durable as porcelain, usually last about 7 years, though this, too, can be extended with meticulous care.To maximize the lifespan of veneers, maintain good oral hygiene habits, regularly visit the dentist for checkups, cleanings, and maintenance, and avoid biting down on hard objects and using your teeth as tools. Factors like teeth grinding and poor dental habits can also adversely impact the longevity of veneers, so using a mouthguard can also help maximize their lifespan.

Dental veneers are a highly durable cosmetic dentistry solution. What they’re not, however, is invincible. Maximizing their lifespan requires proper, consistent care. Here are our top tips for keeping your veneers in tip-top shape:Brush with soft bristles. — Hard-bristled brushes can scratch the surface of veneers and dull their appearance. When choosing a toothbrush, make non-abrasiveness a priority. Consider your toothpaste. — Similarly, many toothpastes—whitening in particular—contain abrasives that wear down the polished surface of veneers over time. Select a toothpaste designed to protect enamel while keeping teeth bright.Floss daily. — Food particles and plaque-causing bacteria can accumulate between veneers and natural teeth. To prevent this buildup, floss gently every day. When you do, focus on not damaging the edges of the veneers where they meet your gums.Rinse cautiously. — Many mouthwashes contain alcohol, which can weaken the dental cement that bonds dental veneers to teeth. Avoid this risk by using an alcohol-free mouthwash to keep your mouth fresh and bacteria-free without compromising your veneers.