The Durability of Porcelain Veneers: How Strong Are They?
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Porcelain veneers are known for helping patients achieve stunning smile transformations, leaving many people wondering how long dental veneers last and, more importantly, what they can do to keep veneers looking their best for as long as possible. While they may look and even sound delicate, porcelain veneers are surprisingly strong. Still, like any dental restoration, they aren't indestructible. With the right care, however, veneers can hold up beautifully for many years or even up to a decade or longer.
At Ferrari & Aldieri Dental Associates in Farmingdale, NY, Dr. Angela Ferrari and our dedicated team utilize high-quality porcelain veneers to help patients feel confident about their smiles. Here, you'll find answers to many dental veneer FAQ, including questions about the durability of porcelain veneers, how to maintain your veneers for longer, and others.
How strong are porcelain veneers?
Despite their thin, shell-like appearance, our advanced porcelain veneers are crafted from a strong, specialized material that can withstand the demands of everyday life. Once bonded to the front surface of a tooth, a veneer becomes part of your bite and contributes to its function and form alike. This makes it possible to eat, speak, and smile just as you normally would. In addition to their strength, porcelain veneers are also highly stain-resistant. This helps maintain a bright, white appearance even after years of regular use. Still, veneers can stain or become damaged over time, making proper care essential.
Can porcelain veneers chip or break?
Porcelain veneers can be damaged under certain circumstances. While dental porcelain veneers are designed to handle regular chewing and biting, they are not meant to withstand habits or forces that would compromise natural teeth either. Additionally, foods and drinks that stain teeth can also stain veneers with repetitive exposure. To preserve the structure and appearance of veneers, avoid the following things that can damage them:
- Biting on hard objects
- Opening packages with your teeth
- Chewing on ice or fingernails
- Grinding teeth
- Clenching jaw
- Staining foods, drinks, and substances like coffee, tea, red wine, tomato sauce, and tobacco
- Poor dental and oral hygiene
Even if your veneers are holding up well, routine dental visits are important for keeping the surrounding teeth and gums healthy and addressing any issues early.
How do you take care of porcelain veneers?
If you treat your veneers with the same care you give your natural teeth, you're already off to a great start. In most cases, patients can care for their veneers using their everyday dental hygiene routine, though a few small adjustments may help prolong their lifespan. To help keep porcelain veneers strong, beautiful, and healthy, be sure to:
- Brush twice a day
- Floss daily
- Use nonabrasive toothpaste
- Wear a night guard if recommended
- Avoid dark beverages and smoking
- Keep up with regular dental cleanings
How long can porcelain veneers really last?
Porcelain veneers are one of the longest-lasting cosmetic dental solutions available. On average, patients can expect their veneers to last ten years with proper care. Some people keep their veneers for even longer before needing a replacement. If you notice a change in the way your veneers look or feel, don't wait to get it checked out. While not every issue means the veneers need to be replaced, prompt attention can help avoid complications like tooth sensitivity, cracks, or stains — allowing you to enjoy a strong and beautiful smile for longer.
Get the celebrity smile you've always wanted with porcelain veneers in Farmingdale, NY
Porcelain veneers can be a lasting solution for patients who want to feel great about their smile — and one that doesn't require additional maintenance beyond what you should already be doing for your teeth. At Ferrari & Aldieri Dental Associates, New York cosmetic dentist Dr. Angela Ferrari takes pride in designing custom veneers that look natural and can stand the test of time. If you are considering porcelain veneers or have questions about other options for cosmetic dental treatment, call our convenient Farmingdale, NY office to schedule a consultation today.