Dental veneers are a sought after branch of cosmetic dentistry that allows a patient to transform their smile. How long veneers last depend on where they are placed in the mouth, and the material chosen for them. Let’s take a closer look at how long do veneers last.
What Are Dental Veneers?
A veneer is a thin cover or shell that is bonded to the front of a tooth. Essentially it covers up aesthetic imperfections and creates an even and symmetrical smile. Some of the issues that veneers can assist with include:
- Covering a decayed, cracked, chipped or fractured tooth
- Increasing the surface area of small teeth that create a gappy smile
- Help with stains or discolouration that do not respond to whitening treatments
How Long Do Veneers Last? Depends on the material
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain has been used as a veneers material for years. Porcelain is very strong, thus long-lasting and very resistant to staining. Porcelain veneers look more natural than composite resin veneers because of the way that they reflect light; it is very similar to dental enamel. Because this material is stronger and its lifespan is long the result is that it costs more.
Composite Resin Veneers
Composite resin veneers are more affordable but they do not last for as long because the material is softer. One of the major benefits of using this material is the fact that you can complete the procedure in one visit. By comparison, porcelain veneers require two to three visits and you’ll need to wait for a few days while a laboratory creates the veneers.
So, How Long Do Veneers Last?
With good care, porcelain veneers can last for up to 25 years but the average is 15 years long.
In order to maintain them that long however you will need to take impeccable care of your oral hygiene.
You must visit your dentist every six months for a check-up, to ensure that the veneers are still in good condition.
Will Getting Veneers Hurt?
During the first step of the veneers process, your dentist will need to remove a small layer of dental enamel from your teeth. This will be the same thickness as the veneer so that when they are stuck to your teeth, they fit properly and comfortably into your mouth. This procedure is usually done under anaesthetic to make it as comfortable as possible for the patient.
The second step of the veneers process is sticking them onto your teeth. This is usually painless and does not require an anaesthetic. You may experience a little sensitivity after the procedure but most patients find it manageable and do not experience discomfort.
Will My Health Insurance Cover My Veneers?
Either porcelain or composite, veneers are considered a cosmetic dentistry procedure and are not covered by health insurance.
If you’d like to know more about ‘how long do veneers last’ or which material would be best for your long term needs it’s best to visit a professional. Please contact us for a veneers consultation and start your smile journey today: (07) 3185 2387.
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