How Long Can Porcelain Veneers Last if Properly Cared for?

When making the decision to invest in porcelain veneers for a beautiful smile, boosted self-confidence, and improved quality of life overall, one of the first questions many men and women have is how long they can expect their veneers to last — and the answer is often surprising. At Sycamore Family Dentistry in Midlothian, VA, Dr. Jacob Sheppard and our dedicated team are committed to helping patients preserve the outcome of their cosmetic dental treatments for as long as possible by utilizing the most innovative techniques and technologies available and ensuring patients are well-informed on how to best care for their newly enhanced smile. Here, you'll find answers to important questions about porcelain veneers, including how long porcelain veneers can last with proper care — and what that entails.

What are porcelain veneers used for?

Porcelain dental veneers — often referred to simply as veneers — are among the most popular cosmetic dentistry treatments used today. With porcelain veneers, patients can conveniently transform their smiles by addressing a diverse array of cosmetic dental concerns without extensive preparation or a complex aftercare regimen. Some of the most common cosmetic dental flaws that can be largely or even fully concealed with porcelain veneers include:

• Yellow teeth
• Stained teeth
• Tooth discoloration
• Gray teeth
• Dull teeth
• Uneven teeth
• Small teeth
• Short teeth
• Cracked tooth
• Chipped tooth
• Gap between teeth
• Worn teeth

The process of placing dental veneers typically involves minimal preparation, which may mean removing a very small amount of material from the surface of the tooth. This allows for a seamless and natural-looking fit. The porcelain veneers, which are custom-made to align with the patient's oral anatomy and desired shade and appearance, are then bonded to the visible surface of the tooth using a specialized dental cement.

How long do porcelain veneers last?

With proper care and healthy habits, porcelain dental veneers can last for 10 – 15 years before a replacement or repair may be needed. To ensure your porcelain veneers last as long as possible, use these important tips for veneer care and maintenance:

• Brush and floss twice daily
• Rinse with mouthwash as directed by your dentist
• Do not smoke
• Avoid staining foods and beverages, like berries, coffee, red wine, and tea
• Rinse after consuming staining foods and beverages
• Do not chew ice
• Do not bite nails
• Do not use teeth to hold, open, or cut things
• Keep your routine dental exams and cleanings as scheduled

Fortunately, the care required for porcelain veneers is virtually the same as general dental and oral hygiene recommendations, meaning patients do not have an added burden of specialized care routines with veneers. Still, Dr. Sheppard and our knowledgeable team will closely evaluate and monitor the health and strength of your veneers over time and adjust your care regimen accordingly to help you preserve the beautiful, white, seamless smile you love for longer.

Give yourself the gift of a stunning, low-maintenance smile with porcelain veneers in Midlothian, VA

With no special care required, porcelain veneers offer patients a convenient and virtually worry-free solution for transforming their smile and enjoying their new look for a decade or longer. If you are interested in learning more about how dental veneers may help you finally achieve the smile of your dreams, we invite you to call us at Sycamore Family Dentistry and schedule a consultation with Midlothian, VA dentist Dr. Jacob Sheppard today.