Are Dental Veneers Permanent?

By: Hillside Dental
Posted on: July 28, 2022

Dental veneers are teeth-colored shells that are bonded to the teeth’s surface. They are a solution for people who require dental restoration as they improve the appearance of the teeth. The thin shells are often made from resin composites or porcelain.

Veneers can help to treat various conditions, including chipped or broken teeth, discolored teeth, crooked teeth, and gaps. They are usually applied on the front, most visible teeth.

Reasons to Get Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are a cosmetic restorative dentistry procedure that can improve the appearance of teeth. Veneers can correct the issue if you have stained, chipped, or misaligned teeth. They are effective for people looking to restore or enhance their smiles, and are custom-made to be tailored to the patient’s mouth. The treatment process is simple, and the results are long-lasting.

Are Dental Veneers Permanent?

Dental veneers offer a long-lasting solution, but they are not permanent. They usually last 10 to 15 years without discoloration or breakage. It is necessary to know that some of the enamel is removed during the veneering process.

It helps accommodate the veneer shell, meaning that the treatment is irreversible. If veneers are removed, new replacements are needed. The longevity of the veneers is highly dependent on the patient’s care.

Proper Care and Maintenance

Maintaining good oral hygiene will ensure that veneers last long. Good oral hygiene includes brushing two times a day and flossing daily, just as you do with your natural teeth. Avoid biting hard objects such as fingernails, ice, and hard candy, as this can cause breakage.

Porcelain veneers are highly stain-resistant, but composite veneers stain more easily. Treat your veneers like natural teeth. Avoid or limit consumption of foods and beverages that cause teeth staining.

Choosing Dental Veneers

The common types of dental veneers are porcelain and composite resin veneers. The application process requires work to prepare the tooth. The prep involves grinding the tooth structure and, in some cases, removing part of the tooth. It is an irreversible process that helps ensure proper placement.

You can choose to get no-prep veneers that require minimal tooth alterations. Porcelain veneers are more stain-resistant, and they reflect light like natural teeth. The condition of your teeth and your budget will determine the best option.

Committing to the Treatment

You should commit to the treatment if you decide to get dental veneers. The veneers themselves are not permanent, but the process is permanent. If removed, the tooth underneath will remain weak, more sensitive, and prone to cavities or damage. It means that you need to get new veneers to protect the tooth. No-prep veneers are less invasive as they only affect the enamel and take less time to apply.

Your dentist will help you determine the best dental veneers for you. The decision will be based on factors such as the cost, installation process, appearance, and longevity of the veneers. If you clench or grind your teeth, you may not be an ideal candidate for the treatment as this can crack or chip the veneers.

For more information on dental veneers and if they are right for you, contact Hillside Dental at our Las Vegas, Nevada office. Call (702) 895-7799 (existing patients) or (702) 666-8584 (new patients) to schedule an appointment today.