Do Dental Veneers Require a lot of Maintenance?

A dental veneer is like a false nail but fitted to the tooth. It covers damage and staining and can improve the wearer’s smile. Veneers are a popular alternative to crowns and false teeth for minor dental cosmetics. The durability of a dental veneer depends on the chosen material.

What is a dental veneer?

Dental veneers come in two broad kinds. Porcelain veneers are often called the industry “gold standard”. The porcelain cap looks very much like the natural tooth. It also retains its natural pearl-white color over time. As a dental cosmetic, porcelain is easy to maintain but difficult to repair. With proper care, a porcelain veneer lasts 10 to 20 years.

A composite veneer is layers of resin or plastic built onto the tooth. Composite veneers are cheaper than porcelain but less durable. Composite veneers last from 5 to 10 years. However, a composite veneer can be easily repaired or replaced. Some forms of composite may be prone to gradual discoloration through wear.

What maintenance do porcelain veneers require?

Porcelain veneers need the same care as natural teeth. They require daily brushing. Flossing and a mouthwash are also recommended. Neglecting these basic daily habits will result in gradual staining of the veneer. Exactly as with natural teeth.

Dental veneers may present a new start with a new white smile. They are not a cure for serious dental problems. The veneers do not negate the need for proper daily cleaning. A dental veneer is a clean slate to keep good habits going forward. A dental veneer needs the same daily cleaning as natural teeth.

Some foods and habits may increase wear on the veneer. Just as with regular teeth, sugary drinks and acidic foods contribute to damage. Smoking also causes significant staining on the teeth. So do tea and coffee. With the same care that teeth normally require, porcelain veneers can last up to 20 years.

What care does a composite veneer need?

Composite veneers are softer than porcelain and more susceptible to damage. These need the same regular cleaning and brushing as natural teeth. However, composite veneers are more vulnerable to damage from acidic and high-sugar diets. Bad habits, such as smoking, can stain composite veneers more quickly than porcelain.

With proper care, a composite veneer lasts from 5 to 10 years. Composite veneers last on average about seven years. These veneers are, however, much easier to repair than porcelain. Composite veneers are by design a temporary prosthetic. The veneers can be readily repaired or repaired if they become damaged.

How a dentist can help maintain dental veneers

Follow-up appointments with the dentist are very important in maintaining your dental veneer. Whether porcelain or composite, the dentist will want to check how the veneer is settling in. Dental veneers need the same regular care as natural teeth. A dental veneer may provide an alternative to more invasive procedures. It is not, however, an alternative to regular dental checkups. Consult with your dentist before and after having a dental veneer applied.

Request an appointment here: https://www.titandentalcare.com or call Titan Dental Care at (703) 745-3227 for an appointment in our Sterling office.

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