Patients with chipped, discolored, or deformed teeth often choose veneers to improve the appearance of their smiles. Some require one or two veneers, while others choose to have a complete set of veneers placed on all of their visible teeth when they smile. Even if you only choose a single veneer, it can significantly improve your appearance.
If veneers would be part of a larger change to color, spacing, bite, or old dental work, a smile makeover visit can compare the options in one plan.
If you want to understand whether veneers are realistic for your teeth, the porcelain veneers and Lumineers page explains how candidacy and materials are reviewed.
However, knowing how long the result of a veneer session can stay on the teeth will guide you on how to schedule your visits. Read on to learn how long different veneer types last on the teeth.
How Long Do Different Types Of Veneers Last
There are basically three types of veneers: porcelain, composite, and instant veneers. Each of these has a different long span. Below is a breakdown of how long you can expect each to last.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are the most lasting and lifelike. They are the gold standard. Natural teeth are made up of layers of enamel, but these veneers are made up of thin layers of porcelain that give them a natural appearance. Porcelain veneers have a 10-year average lifespan, but they can last up to 20 years with adequate care and maintenance.
Composite Veneers
Composite veneers are made of resin and are less expensive than porcelain veneers, but they don’t look as natural, and their typical lifespan is three years. They have a shorter lifespan than porcelain veneers since they discolor with time, and the material they’re constructed of isn’t as robust, requiring more maintenance.
Instant Veneers
Instant veneers come from various manufacturers, and some claim to last as long as porcelain veneers, with an average lifespan of 10 years and up to 20 years with good care. For these sorts of no-prep veneers, we believe a 5-year average is more accurate.
Increasing The Lifespan Of Your Veneers
Good dental hygiene is even more important for healthy teeth, to begin with. Brush twice a day for two minutes and floss thoroughly at least once a day. Dentists recommend professional dental cleanings every six months.
Another way to increase the lifespan of your veneer is by wearing a mouthguard. A mouth guard helps protect veneers while in motion. You will find this helpful if you engage in sports activities frequently.
Similarly, if you clench your jaw or grind your teeth at night, you’ll need a sleep guard to prevent damage to your veneers. Don’t bite down on hard objects like ice or nuts, and don’t use your teeth to open packages or bite your nails.
Wrap Up
A veneer’s lifespan can range from 5 to 10 years, depending on the veneer you choose and other lifestyle considerations. When deciding which type of dental veneer is best for you, consider the short- and long-term costs, the projected lifespan of the veneers, and the appearance you want to attain. However, any qualified dentist can apply veneers to your teeth, but if you have the option, find a dentist who will let you test drive your new smile before committing to a treatment plan.
