Veneers are a highly effective and durable fix for cosmetic imperfections and minor damage. Veneers themselves do eventually require replacement, usually after a decade or more. It’s important to understand, however, that the steps taken by your Sweetwater cosmetic dentist to prepare your teeth for placement cannot be undone.
So, Are Veneers Permanent or Temporary?
Veneer placement is considered irreversible because preparing a tooth for placement requires removing a tiny layer of its outer enamel. Dental enamel doesn't grow back. This means that the underlying tooth will always require some form of protection. So, while veneers themselves aren’t permanent, the decision to get them calls for a lifelong commitment.
On the bright side, with proper at-home and professional care, porcelain veneers are designed to last at least a decade, sometimes up to 15 years.
Maximizing Your Veneers
It’s also helpful to understand that a person’s lifestyle can impact the longevity and effectiveness of a dental veneer. Among the habits that can have an adverse effect:
- Frequent nail-biting
- Tobacco use (smoking or smokeless)
- Biting down on hard items, like ice or pen caps
- Using your teeth as tools
- Chronic teeth-grinding during sleep (bruxism)
In cases of bruxism, your dentist may recommend a custom night guard to protect against damage to veneers and natural teeth alike, as well as pain and tension in the jawbone.
Long-Term Cosmetic Care in Sweetwater, TN
If you’re considering porcelain veneers in Sweetwater and want a comprehensive overview of the placement process before choosing a treatment plan, contact Dr. Christy Moore and the Moore Smiles team to schedule a consultation!