Are Veneers Permanent?
When you’re self-conscious about your smile because of discoloured or cracked teeth, cosmetic dentistry can help make your teeth look as close to perfect as possible.
Dental veneers are increasingly popular because they’re durable, long-lasting, and transform your teeth into a vibrant smile you’ll want to show off. The veneers last up to 10 to 25 years, and then they must be replaced.
Experienced dentists can help you make an informed decision before you commit. Veneers are often irreversible, but you may find the results worth it.
What are Veneers?
A veneer is a thin tooth-coloured shell that’s permanently bonded to the tooth to fit over discolouration, cracks or other imperfections you want to be covered. You can get a single veneer or up to 8 veneers, most commonly on the top teeth, to create a symmetrical smile.
What Problems Do Veneers Fix?
Veneers are a versatile cosmetic fix and can routinely address several issues, including:
- Discolouration
- Stains resulting from antibiotics
- Excessive fluoride use
- Worn down teeth
- Chipped or broken teeth
- Irregularly shaped, misaligned, or uneven teeth
- Gapped teeth
It’s a long-term solution to dental problems, especially if braces, Invisalign, or teeth whitening procedures aren’t an option. With customized veneers and precise application, your new teeth can appear as if they’re real and natural.
What are the Different Types of Veneers?
The most common material used for veneers is porcelain. They’re not only durable, but the material is generally higher quality and mimics the elements of a natural tooth. The colour, translucence, and texture feel authentic.
Resin-based composite veneers are sometimes used. However, they typically only last five years, are more likely to chip and can stain over time.
Are Veneers Permanent?
Choosing veneers is a permanent decision. You typically can’t reverse the procedure, remove them, and return them to your natural teeth. This is because, during the preparation stage, your dentist may have to shave down your natural tooth, including the enamel, which protects your teeth from cavities and decay.
The amount of shaving you’ll need depends on the natural shape of your teeth or gaps you may have. You and your dentist can discuss if shaving is necessary and how much is essential.
Once the porcelain veneers are cemented to your teeth, if properly taken care of, they can last from 10 to 15 years before they need to be replaced. Your dentist will file down the old veneer to remove it and reattach new veneers.
What’s the Difference Between Veneers & Crowns?
Veneers and crowns can improve the cosmetic appearance of your smile. The main difference between the two is the location of the tooth you’re trying to cover.
Veneers primarily cover the front of the teeth at the front of the mouth. Crowns cover the entire tooth like a cap. Crowns are ideal for fixing broken teeth with very little structure to prevent tooth decay or further cracks in the natural tooth.
Veneers are almost purely for cosmetic purposes and enhancing the appearance of your smile. Crowns are cosmetic prosthetics to enhance the durability of the tooth.
How Does the Veneer Procedure Go?
In total, getting fitted for veneers can take 2 to 3 appointments. Your dentist may use a local anesthetic to limit discomfort during the procedure. Once you’re frozen, they’ll shave away a thin layer of the enamel to make space for your new veneers.
A mould will be taken of your teeth to custom-fit your permanent porcelain veneers. While you wait for the permanent veneers to arrive, your dentist can place temporary veneers to cover the surface of the teeth that were shaved down.
On your next visit, your dentist will remove the temporary veneers and then glue the porcelain veneers to your teeth with composite resin cement.
Do Veneers Require Special Care?
Just like with your natural teeth, brushing, flossing, and regular dentist appointments are everything you need to care for your veneers. Try to avoid biting into hard foods with your front teeth to make your veneers last, and while porcelain veneers are stain-resistant, dark foods and drinks like berries, red wine, and coffee can stain your veneers slowly over time.
Who Can Get Veneers?
Your dentist will ultimately decide if veneers are the right choice for you. Most people with healthy gums and good oral hygiene can consider the cosmetic procedure.
Not everyone will benefit from veneers. Your dentist may recommend other treatments if you have the following:
- Tooth decay or gum disease
- Little enamel left on your teeth
- Too much tooth structure is missing and requires a crown instead
- Grinding or clenching habits
Discover Dental Veneers & Other Cosmetic Dental Options
Anyone can have a red-carpet smile. Whether you’re interested in veneers, teeth whitening, Invisalign, or dental cleaning and checkup, contact us to schedule an appointment with our knowledgeable team for your one-of-a-kind smile.
