How Long Do Veneers Last?

Veneers are one of the most popular types of cosmetic dental procedures and for very good reason.

They are extremely versatile and can treat minor, moderate, and even severe cosmetic imperfections. 

If you’re interested in getting veneers, then you also might have the number one question of other patients in your shoes:

How long do veneers last?

Find out the answer below!

How Do Veneers Work? 

Veneers are thin shells bonded to your natural tooth. They are used to change the look of a tooth by attaching the veneer to the front surface of the tooth. 

Most veneers are made from porcelain and are designed to match the patient’s tooth color, size, and smile expectations. Veneers can be used to correct just one tooth, but patients may also get multiple veneers for a bigger cosmetic change. 

They can fix:

• Tooth discoloration and severe staining
• Gaps between teeth
• Irregularly sized teeth
• Misshapen teeth
• Minor chipped or cracked teeth
• Certain minor tooth alignment issues, etc.

Average Veneer Lifespan

Porcelain veneers can last anywhere between 10 and 15 years with the right maintenance. Some practices also offer resin veneers, which are slightly more affordable but may only last 4–8 years on average as the material is much weaker.

What’s important to understand is that if your veneers are damaged in any way, you will need to get them replaced as soon as possible. Veneers are bonded to the tooth by shaving a small amount of enamel to create a rough texture.

This makes veneers a lifelong commitment since tooth enamel cannot grow back. If your veneers chip, break, fall out, or reach the end of their lifespan, you will need to get a new set to protect your teeth.

How Can You Maintain Veneers?

Veneers are strong and designed to last for years, but patients may help prolong their lifespan through a few key strategies:

• Maintaining good oral hygiene with daily brushing and flossing
• Not smoking or chewing tobacco products
• Using a mouthguard to protect the teeth from tooth grinding
• Avoiding hard foods and chewing on hard objects like pen caps
• Being mindful when consuming highly processed foods and drinks, like coffee or pasta sauces,
• Protecting their oral health with routine visits to the dentist for consultations and professional cleanings

Veneers don’t protect your natural teeth from decay and other oral health issues. By having good oral hygiene, you are effectively ensuring your veneers will last a long time and preserve a healthy and stunning smile for years!

Are You a Good Candidate for Veneers?

If you’re dealing with some cosmetic imperfections but have good overall oral health, you’re most likely a fantastic candidate for veneers.

But an appointment with Dr. Patrick Stuckey will give you a definitive answer.

Schedule a veneers consultation with our Ruston dentist, online, or call us at (318) 255-8648 to learn more about us.