Porcelain Veneer Longevity

Let’s first keep things relative regarding the life expectancy of porcelain veneers. How long will your car last you? Doesn’t that question depend on how you treat it? Between regular, routine maintenance and daily use it can vary greatly. There is  always the addition of uncontrollable elements; like weather, road conditions or even that unexpected accident. The life expectancy of your porcelain veneers can be somewhat the same.

Durability
The short answer is that properly done porcelain veneers usually last a very long time! Thanks to their lifelike appearance and wide array of functions, porcelain veneers rank among the most trusted and popular procedures in cosmetic dentistry. Individually crafted for each patient, these cosmetic enhancements are made from advanced material that closely resembles the appearance of natural dental enamel. Most porcelain veneers nowadays are made from porcelain that is as strong as, or stronger, than your natural tooth.  The bonding agents that are used are the best they've ever been.  That being said, the weakest part of any restoration is the cement bond.

Research Proven Life Expectancy
A number of studies have concluded that it can be reasonably expected that a porcelain veneer will last on the order of at least 10 years, and more likely beyond. Roughly 95% of most veneers should be able to last for this period of time. Beyond that, failure rates do increase but by fractions. One study had 83% still surviving after 20 years. The three most common reasons for failure were: failed aesthetics (the veneer's appearance was no longer satisfactory), structural complications (chips, cracks, etc...) and loss of retention (the veneer came off).

Elements contributing to the Quality of your Veneer
Like that car mentioned earlier, there is the quality of the initial effort. Your dentist and his/her skills in shaving your teeth can be a deciding factor. The accuracy of the impressions going to the lab. The type of porcelain the lab is using and the level of experience with the ceramist making the veneers. As mentioned earlier; there is the bonding agent used in applying the veneers.

Measures for you to take
The lifespan of your porcelain veneers can be influenced by the way you use and take care of them. Here’s a few suggestions. Brushing normally is essential. Decay and gum disease are contributing complications to failure. You will need to monitor any gum recession. Work with your dentist on this factor. Avoid exerting excessive forces, which means not biting your fingernails, hair pins, pencils, ice, or any other hard objects. Even biting into hard foods like carrots can make a difference. If you are athletic consider a mouth guard. Do you grind your teeth at night? Same solution.

Do your Research
If a competent dentist is on the top of his/her game and has a good team of people working with him, porcelain veneers can last 25 years and beyond so long as you take proper care of them. Time to brighten up your smile!

If you're interested in learning more about Porcelain Veneers, or would like to schedule your appointment to get started, contact Iowa Dental Group today!