Are Veneers Permanent? Find Out!

If you are looking for a relatively quick and cost-effective way to enhance your smile, then dental veneers can be an excellent solution. The procedure is quite simple, and the result is stunning. Veneers can blend seamlessly with the rest of your teeth, giving you a natural and healthy smile. 

You may have heard, however, that veneers are a permanent procedure. Does that mean they can last forever? 

Not exactly. 

Keep reading to find out if veneers are permanent. 

How do Veneers Work?

Veneers are a cosmetic dental treatment meant to correct various imperfections. They are thin porcelain shells that are custom-made to fit your teeth. Veneers are bonded onto the exterior surface of the teeth, masking all sorts of cosmetic issues, such as: 

• Discolored or stained teeth
• Cracked or chipped teeth 
• Gapped or uneven teeth

Veneers can be made out of composite resin or porcelain. Porcelain veneers are more expensive but have additional benefits, such as stain resistance or increased durability. Composite resin can be a good option if you are on a budget. 

Are Dental Veneers Permanent?

There are two ways to answer this question: by considering the procedure of getting veneers and looking at the veneers' lifespan. 

The procedure of getting veneers is permanent, and here's why. Before the veneers are bonded to the teeth, your Hendersonville dentist has to prepare the surface of the tooth for the veneer to fit correctly. To do so, a thin layer of the tooth enamel is trimmed down, a process that changes the tooth's structure. In this sense, veneers are a permanent solution, as the removal of enamel cannot be reversed.

However, if your veneers get damaged, for example, you will have to replace them. Failing to do so means the natural tooth will be left exposed and unprotected. 

Regarding their lifespan, veneers can last up to 15 years if you take good care of them. After the 15-year mark, the bond starts to weaken, and you will need to replace your veneers. You may also need to replace them sooner if they get cracked, chipped, or discolored. 

How to Take Care of Your Dental Veneers?

Maintaining veneers is as easy as taking care of your natural teeth:

• Brush and floss on a daily basis 
• Do not use abrasive dental products that can damage your veneers 
• Do not use your teeth as tools
• Use a nightguard if you grind and clench your teeth 
• Use a mouthguard if you play contact sports
• Avoid hard and sticky foods that can damage your veneers, especially immediately after getting them

Are Veneers The Right Treatment for You? 

Veneers are a great way to improve your smile, but they aren’t right for everyone. Fortunately, we offer a full range of cosmetic dental services, and will work with you to find the solution that best fits your needs and lifestyle.

At Vibrant Dental, we can help you find the best way to improve your oral health. 

Get in touch with us today to schedule a cosmetic consultation with Dr. Weis.