One of the fastest, easiest ways to achieve an absolutely stunning smile is with porcelain veneers. This remarkable dental technology can turn even the most dentally challenged smile into a thing of beauty. So it’s no wonder that dental patients from throughout the Austin, TX, area and all around the US are choosing porcelain veneers as a way of resolving their minor dental issues. If you’re just starting to consider whether or not porcelain veneers are the right choice for you, you probably have a lot of questions. One of the most common is this: Are porcelain veneers permanent? In this article, we’ll answer that question, as well as provide you with other valuable information to help you decide whether or not you’re a good candidate for porcelain veneers.
What Exactly Are Porcelain Veneers?
What Dental Issues Can Porcelain Veneers Resolve?
In addition to improving the appearance of your smile, veneers are also a great way to repair minor dental problems. This includes any or all of the following conditions:
- Eroded enamel
- Badly stained teeth that can’t be whitened with whitening products
- Misshapen teeth
- Chipped teeth
- Cracked teeth
- Teeth with wide gaps in between
While veneers effectively resolve all of these problems, it is important to remember that you’ll need to be in good oral health before receiving new veneers. That means if you have any issues that compromise your oral health – such as tooth decay or gum disease, for example – you’ll need to have those problems resolved before going through with the veneer procedure.
What Is Involved in Getting New Porcelain Veneers
The process involved in having traditional porcelain veneers applied usually requires two trips to the dentist’s office. During the first visit, your dentist will remove a very thin layer of enamel from the teeth that will be covered with veneers. After that, an impression will be made of those teeth, and that impression will be sent out to a dental lab, where your custom-made dental veneers will be created.
During the second visit (typically 10 to 14 days later), your dentist will apply the new permanent porcelain veneers using adhesive and specially designed hardening light. It’s as simple as that! The process is virtually pain-free and remarkably easy compared to other dental procedures. The end result is a gorgeous new smile – one that will last for several years.
How Long Do Veneers Last?
Traditional porcelain veneers usually last for at least 10 years. But if you care for them properly, they can last for 15 years or even longer. The porcelain material is extremely durable and stain-resistant. New veneers not only give you a more attractive smile; they also protect your natural teeth and guard against any further damage from happening.
Making the Commitment to Porcelain Veneers
It’s important to remember that once some amount of enamel is removed from your teeth, it never grows back. That means that once you decide to have veneers applied to some of your teeth – which involves your dentist removing a thin layer of enamel prior to applying the veneers – those teeth will always require veneers, so it is definitely a long-term commitment. The good news is that this commitment leaves you with a much more beautiful, healthy set of teeth. And remember that veneers last for several years. So this is one commitment that the vast majority of dental patients are more than happy to make!
Are Porcelain Veneers Permanent?
important to remember that the teeth you choose to have veneers applied to will keep needing those veneers (or some other dental restoration, such as a crown for example) for the lifetime of the tooth. So even though veneers do eventually need to be replaced, they are intended to be a permanent way to resolve minor dental issues.
Extending the Lifespan of Your Porcelain Veneers
Getting new porcelain veneers is an investment, and there are several ways you can take care of that investment and make sure that your veneers last for as long as possible. After your new veneers are applied, make sure you do the following:
- Brush at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss at least once a day.
- Veneers are strong, but they’re not indestructible, so try to avoid chewing on anything hard (like ice or hard candy, for example) and never use your teeth as a tool.
- If you grind your teeth at night, talk to your dentist about ways to protect your teeth (and your veneers) from the damaging effects of grinding.
- If you engage in vigorous exercise or any type of contact sport, always wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and your veneers.
- Visit your dentist at least twice a year for regular exams and professional cleanings.
To find out more about porcelain veneers, and to decide whether they are the right choice for you, contact your Austin, TX, area dentist today and schedule an appointment. In this article, we’ve answered the question of “Are porcelain veneers are permanent,” but your dentist can provide you with more information and help you decide whether or not you are a good candidate for porcelain veneers.
