Your smile hasn’t been looking it’s best lately, and you’re concerned that the veneers you got 15 years ago might be the culprit. Though they can last for up to a few decades, veneers don’t last forever. Replacing veneers in a timely manner can keep your smile looking and functioning as it should. To help you understand how to know when it’s time to look into veneer replacement, here are a few signs to keep an eye out for.
Losing Its Luster
Dental adhesive, the substance that bonds a veneer to the front of the tooth, naturally begins to darken over time. There’s no way to lighten the cement, so removing the veneer and the cement and applying a new one to your tooth is the only way to keep it from making your teeth look dark and discolored. Food and drinks such as coffee, soda, red wine, and acidic foods can also stain the cement. Unlike natural teeth, veneers can’t be whitened, so the only way to remove stains from them is to vigorously brush them. If the stains still don’t lift, you may need to have them replaced.
A Little Rough Around the Edges
As you chew, your veneers will begin to wear down which can make them rough around the edges and eventually cause them to lose their shape. This can also lead to chips or cracks in the veneer. Biting down on hard objects, opening things with your mouth, and other things you shouldn’t use your teeth for can also cause your veneers to break.
How to Make Veneers Last
Taking care of your veneers can help extend their lifespan therefore saving you time and money. Ways to properly care for your veneers include:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to minimize plaque accumulation and stains
- Floss once a day with high-quality waxed floss to remove plaque between your teeth without loosening your veneers
- Visit your dentist on a regular basis for cleanings and dental exams
- Avoid grinding or clenching your teeth. Talk to your dentists about wearing a custom night guard to protect both your veneers and your natural teeth
- Don’t chew on non-food items to lessen chipping, breaking, or other forms of damage to your veneers
- Protect your teeth during sports by wearing an athletic mouth guard
- Cut out or cut back on foods and drinks that are likely to stain them
Though your veneers may be able to last up to three decades, having them replaced once they begin showing these signs of wear can help keep your smile looking bright for years to come.
About the Author
Dr. Cher Rich and team believe in building a foundation of trust with their Houston patients in order to provide quality, comfortable dental care. They provide personalized oral health care and offer a variety of ways to help you get the beautiful smile you deserve and maintain it for a lifetime with options like veneers. From a simple checkup to a dental emergency, you can rest easy knowing they have your back. For more information on replacing veneers, call (281) 377-3125 or visit our website.