Do Porcelain Veneers Need Replacement and When?

As you may know, veneers are the most cost-effective first step towards a complete smile cosmetic makeover. Especially in Greater Los Angeles where gleaming Hollywood grins have set a high standard way beyond the entertainment industry, a beautiful smile is important.

People often unconsciously judge others as not caring about their personal appearance  if their teeth are stained or chipped. If you find yourself embarrassed to flash a full smile, whether at work or socially, you might be perceived as unfriendly. Veneers can give you a boost of self-confidence in every facet of your life.

However, veneers are not a permanent solution. Most are effective cosmetic improvements for your smile for 5-10 years or more, depending on how you care for them. They are stain resistant, for example, but cannot be whitened by any method, over-the-counter or professionally at our office. You will need to brush them twice a day with a soft brush and non-abrasive toothpaste to maintain their appearance.

Before veneers are placed, you should have your teeth whitened to the shade you want for your veneers, then be sure your dental habits keep up a uniform appearance. If you drink a lot of coffee, tea, colas, or red wine, eat strongly-colored foods like blueberries, smoke, use professional-grade mouthwashes, or take certain medications (like tetracycline) your teeth may become stained. You can change these choices, but at some point it may be more realistic to have the veneers changed to a color that is easier to maintain for your teeth.

Porcelain veneers are very strong, but they can be chipped or fractured in an accident and may need to be replaced. They can also be damaged if you use your teeth to open packages, pull on clothes, chew on pens or fingernails, or eat something very hard.

Veneers cover the front of the visible teeth, but the back and below the gum line can become decayed or subject to periodontal bacteria. Treatment may require removal of the veneers or even the affected teeth. Likewise, they can be used to cover gaps and improve small or misshapen teeth, but bites can gradually change and the original veneers may no longer fully fix the problems.

Veneers are bonded to teeth with a special cement. Over time, this may not adhere as well and they may need to be removed and a new set created and bonded on. 

Set an appointment today with Dr. Gutierrez to have a full dental examination and explore your best options, including porcelain veneers, to achieve your perfect smile.