“How long do veneers last?” is the first question a dentist usually receives when recommending veneers to a patient. Each case is individual, but specialists have reliable timeframes for reference.
Table of Contents
- What determines the lifespan of veneers?
- How long do composite veneers last?
- How long does porcelain veneers last?
- Lifespan of zirconia veneers
- Prevention
- Questions & Answers
What Determines the Lifespan of Veneers?
The lifespan is determined by three key factors:
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Material (composite, porcelain, or zirconia). How long specific products last depends on the material's resistance to external factors. Zirconia lasts longer than any other material.
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Quality of Installation: It's crucial to achieve a tight fit of the product to the tooth. This requires evenly grinding the tooth surface and thoroughly drying it before installation.
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Conditions of Use: Daily care and gentle treatment are required after installation. Insufficient care can lead to chips and cracks.
The thinnest products, as thin as a sheet of paper – Lumineers – can be installed without prior grinding of the tooth surface. However, according to doctors' research, the shape of the tooth units and the condition of the enamel must be perfect for this.
How Long Do Composite Veneers Last?
Composite veneers last up to 5-7 years. Composite is prone to debonding at the edges. As a result of prolonged contact with saliva and other fluids, the composite swells and delaminates. Over time, composite loses its shine and wears down, thus requiring periodic polishing.
How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?
Porcelain veneers can last up to 15 years, and with impeccable care, they can be worn for up to 20 years. Observations have shown that about 90% of patients with porcelain veneers continue to wear them after 20 years. Porcelain is more durable than composite. It does not darken, does not take on the color of food and drinks, does not swell, and does not delaminate from the tooth surface.
How Long Do Zirconia Veneers Last?
Zirconia veneers last more than 15 years. They are even more durable than porcelain, resistant to chipping and damage. Zirconia veneers are semi-transparent – very similar to natural teeth. Moreover, they do not stain and maintain their natural luster.
In preparation for veneering in this case, the dentist needs to remove a very small layer of enamel (compared to other types). This is facilitated by the slight thickness and lightness of zirconia products.
How long do lumineers last?
Lumineers last 15-20 years. Reinforced with leucite from glass-ceramic, they are 2-3 times thinner than traditional veneers. Lumineers are durable, do not absorb food dyes, and are resistant to moisture. Even when installed on an unprepared surface, Lumineers do not detach from the teeth with proper fixation.
How Can I Extend the Lifespan of My Veneers?
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Maintain basic oral hygiene. Regularly brush your teeth, use mouthwash, and preferably replace dental floss with an irrigator.
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Limit the load. Do not use front teeth to bite into nuts, ice, etc. Use a knife for cutting hard foods (apples, carrots).
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Reduce the consumption of foods and beverages that stain. This includes berries, fruits, chocolate, coffee, etc. This restriction is particularly relevant for wearing composite veneers.
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Avoid ultrasonic dental cleaning. Ultrasonic can damage the strong bond of the products to the tooth surface.
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Undergo preventive dental check-ups. Visit the dentist at least twice a year.
Q&A
Veneers should be replaced once they wear out. This depends on the material, placement, and maintenance of the veneers.
