Dental veneers have become an increasingly popular choice for both cosmetic and restorative dentistry. They work by covering the appearance of small gaps and discolored, misaligned, or crooked teeth. You can get one, a few, or a full set of veneers based on your situation. At Valor Dental, we have versatile veneers that can be helpful to patients of all ages.

Veneers are a long-term dental treatment option. But the longevity of your dental veneers will depend on their material (porcelain or composite). Porcelain veneers can last about 10 -12 years. Their composite counterparts have a lifespan of 4 to 8 years. However, your porcelain or composite resin veneers can last longer with reasonable precautions and proper care.

When you opt for veneers, you're choosing a cosmetic solution that can dramatically enhance the appearance of your teeth. But what happens to the teeth underneath?

Your natural teeth undergo a preparation process before veneers are placed. This involves the removal of a small amount of enamel, usually less than a millimeter, to make room for the veneer. This process is irreversible and is done to ensure a natural and comfortable fit for the veneer.

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Once the veneer is bonded to your tooth, it serves as a new outer layer. Your natural tooth is still there, but it's protected and concealed by the veneer. The veneer also helps to strengthen the tooth. However, it's important to maintain good oral hygiene as the tooth underneath can still be susceptible to decay and gum disease.

Even with veneers, maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial. Although veneers themselves cannot get cavities, the natural tooth underneath can. Veneers are bonded to the enamel of your teeth, and the tooth structure that remains beneath the veneer can still be susceptible to decay, especially at the gum line where the veneer ends.

If a cavity does form under a veneer, the veneer may need to be removed to treat the decay. Therefore, regular check-ups with your dentist and a robust oral hygiene routine are essential to prevent this from happening.

Veneers are considered a permanent cosmetic procedure, as the process involves the removal of some of your natural tooth's enamel, which cannot grow back. Once a veneer is placed, the tooth will always need to be protected with a veneer or crown.

However, while veneers are permanent in this sense, they do not last forever. The lifespan of a veneer can vary depending on the material used, your oral hygiene habits, and your lifestyle. On average, porcelain veneers can last 10 to 15 years, and sometimes longer with proper care. When a veneer reaches the end of its lifespan, it will need to be replaced.

One of the many benefits of veneers, particularly porcelain veneers, is their resistance to staining. Unlike natural teeth, porcelain veneers are nonporous, which means they do not absorb the pigments from food and drinks that cause staining.

While veneers are resistant to staining, they are not entirely stain-proof. Over time, the bonding material used to attach the veneer to your tooth can discolor, causing the edge of the veneer to appear yellow or brown. Regular cleanings and check-ups with your dentist can help to minimize this.

Also, it's important to note that veneers will not change color with whitening treatments like natural teeth will. Therefore, if you're considering veneers, your dentist may recommend whitening your teeth to your desired shade before getting veneers.

Remember, while veneers can provide a dramatic improvement to your smile, they require a commitment to good oral hygiene and regular dental visits to keep them looking their best.