It’s understandable that people would think that porcelain veneers are very fragile because porcelain is often a delicate material. However, porcelain veneers are quite durable once they are bonded to the teeth, and the devices can last for decades when you take good care of them.
Porcelain veneers, which a cosmetic dentist can use to conceal any number of unsightly defects in your teeth, are thin tooth-shaped shells that are attached to the front of your biological teeth using a strong dental cement. After they are attached to the teeth, they become as strong as the teeth they’re restoring.
Of course, poor oral hygiene can jeopardize the longevity of your porcelain veneers, so it’s important to practice good oral hygiene habits to minimize your risk of cavities and gum disease. At the same time, porcelain veneers are not indestructible, so you should use common sense. Habits that could harm your natural teeth—like chewing on ice, pencils or your fingernails—could damage veneers as well. Your dentist will give you thorough instructions on how to take care of your veneers. We encourage you to follow those guidelines closely.
This treatment doesn’t take very long, either. Patients get porcelain veneers over the course of two appointments a few weeks apart. At the first session, the dentist gathers the information needed to design the veneers and may prep the teeth for veneer placement by removing a thin layer of enamel, if necessary to make room for the veneers. Then, when the veneers are ready, the patient returns to the office to have the dentist place them on the teeth.
In addition to being durable, porcelain veneers are beautiful. The porcelain looks quite similar to biological tooth enamel, so these veneers have a lifelike appearance and blend in well with the rest of your smile. Furthermore, the dentist will design them specifically for you so that the shade, shape and proportion of the veneers are a good fit with your biological teeth.
Porcelain veneers can last for years if you maintain them properly. If you have any questions about making the most of your veneers, please feel free to ask at your consultation. Call our caring and professional team today!
