Dental veneers are an amazing cosmetic dental procedure that gives patients with minor smile imperfections a beautiful, easy to care for solution. Veneers are very popular, with thousands of Americans using them each year for a brighter, whiter, and straighter smile. Read on to find out exactly what veneers are, what they’re used for, and how long you can expect them to last with proper care.
What are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are a thin shell, usually made of porcelain or composite resin, that fit perfectly over the visible front teeth. Veneers give the illusion of a perfect smile by simply hiding the underlying imperfections. Veneers are not intended to correct functional issues with the natural teeth like crowns or meant to replace the natural teeth like implants. Instead, veneers offer patients an easy way to get the smile of their dreams without extensive dental work.
What Can Dental Veneers Cover?
Veneers are a great option to cover up all types of minor imperfections with the natural teeth, including:
- Gaps between teeth
- Uneven teeth
- Misshapen or undersized teeth
- Misaligned teeth
- Stained teeth
- Chipped teeth
Lifespan of Dental Veneers
Dental veneers have an average lifespan of 10-15 years with proper care. This care includes brushing and flossing the veneers morning and night, along with after each meal, visiting the dentist regularly for exams and cleaning, and occasional polishing to remove stains.
Factors Affecting the Longevity of Dental Veneers
Certain lifestyle choices can significantly affect the longevity of dental veneers, slashing their lifespan and requiring replacements much sooner than 10 years. Some of these activities include:
- Smoking
- Drinking coffee, tea, or red wine regularly
- Eating dark foods like berries
- Eating or drinking things high in sugar
- Eating or drinking things high in acid
- Poor home dental care
- Not visiting the dentist at least once each year
Protect your investment in veneers by avoiding these activities and receiving routine dental care as recommended by your dentist.
Dental Veneers are Not Permanent
While some people may claim that dental veneers are a permanent smile solution, this is misleading. Even with the best care, dental veneers will not last an entire lifetime. However, once the lifespan of the dental veneers is over, they can easily be replaced with a new set of veneers, making them a viable long-term solution.
Frequently Asked Questions About Veneers
Are veneers painful?
No, veneers should not be painful. While they may take some getting used to at first, they should fit snugly and comfortably over the existing front teeth. If your dental veneers are painful or uncomfortable after a few days, notify your dentist.
Do veneers require special care?
No, veneers do not require special care beyond what is required for the natural teeth. They should be brushed, flossed, and cleaned the same as the natural teeth.
Transform Your Smile With Dental Veneers Today
If you’re ready to take your smile from drab to dazzling, contact A&R Advanced Dental Group in Pomona or Brooklyn today. Our team of experienced dental professionals can custom fit a set of dental veneers that will cover up unsightly defects and make you proud to show off your smile. To schedule a dental veneers consultation, call us at 845-364-9400 in Pomona or 718-376-1666 in Brooklyn. You can also request an appointment online.