Are dental veneers permanent? This is a common question for Scottsdale people. An investment in porcelain veneers has the possibility of revolutionizing your life. Still, there is a lot of misinformation about how long they last, if they are removable, and what exactly defines “permanent.” We are here to clear up any confusion about these exceptional cosmetic dentistry choices. For more information, contact a cosmetic dentist Scottsdale.

Do Porcelain Veneers stay for a lifetime?

Porcelain veneers are solid, wafer-thin ceramic shells that are custom-made and fitted over teeth to enhance their look. Composite veneers are made of tooth-colored resin that is shaped to look like natural teeth. Both treatments may solve the following dental concerns:

  • Chipped teeth.
  • Misaligned teeth.
  • Worn down teeth
  • Gapped teeth
  • Uneven or irregularly shaped teeth
  • Permanently discolored teeth that do not react to whitening.

Composite resin veneers are less costly than porcelain veneers, but they do not last as long and need to be changed or touched up more often.

Porcelain veneers are becoming popular because of their durability, resistance to stains, and natural light-reflecting features. However, the procedure changes your natural teeth to a certain extent.

How are porcelain veneers used?

The placement of porcelain veneers is a multi-step function that often needs two visits.

  • Preparation

To give the veneers a natural appearance and feel, your dentist will remove a tiny bit of enamel from the outer surface of each tooth, which will result in veneers. This procedure is required to make space for the veneers so that they mix in with the natural teeth and ensure strong bonding.

  • Dental impressions

After your teeth have been prepared, your dentist will create an impression or mold to develop personalized porcelain veneers that fit correctly. The dental imprints are then shipped to a facility where expert dental specialists will build your veneers.

  • Temporary Veneers

In certain situations, temporary veneers are used while you wait for permanent restorations. These protect your prepped teeth while also providing an attractive coating.

  • Bonding

Once your veneers have been completed, your dentist will apply them to the front surface of your teeth. Adjustments may be made to ensure that the veneers mix in with your natural teeth. Once you and your dentist are satisfied with the fit, the veneers are securely bonded to your teeth with a unique adhesive and light-curing technique.

How Can You Make Porcelain Veneers Last Longer?

While not permanent, there are things you can take to extend the life of your veneers while maintaining them looking excellent for more than a decade or even longer. Here are five recommendations for preserving and extending the life of your veneers:

  • Oral Hygiene Routines

Brushing your teeth twice a day with a non-abrasive paste and flossing every day will help prevent plaque buildup surrounding your veneers. Veneers are decay-resistant, but the underlying teeth might still develop cavities, so keep them clean.

  • Avoid Biting Hard Objects

Porcelain veneers, like natural teeth, can become damaged as time passes. Do not use your teeth to open boxes and bottles or bite down on hard items such as ice, fingernails, or pens.

  • Put on a mouthguard

Your veneers will deteriorate or break if you grind your teeth too often. Wearing a custom-fitted mouthguard while sleeping can help protect the veneers and extend their life.

  • Limit Staining Foods and Drinks

While porcelain veneers are generally stain-resistant, regular use of red wine, coffee, tea, and berries can cause them to dull. If you consume beverages that stain easily, consider using a straw.

Porcelain veneers versus other cosmetic dental solutions

If you are considering getting veneers, you might also be looking into other cosmetic dentistry options. Veneers are a flexible treatment for many dental problems, but there may be better choices for everyone. This is how they compare against a few different treatments:

  • Professional Tooth Whitening

If tooth discoloration is your primary issue, professional teeth whitening is a less expensive and potentially more efficient choice. If you have stained teeth, having them professionally bleached before getting veneers allows them to color-match them with your brighter teeth.

  • Dental bonding

Composite veneers are cheaper and less invasive than regular veneers however they are not as durable. Bonding is utilized for minor repairs and might need more frequent repairs or replacements than veneers.