In the realm of cosmetic dentistry, there is no other solution quite like veneers. These incredible porcelain shells are capable of completely overhauling teeth with aesthetic flaws and boosting the confidence of the patient tenfold. That said, as fantastic as veneers are, they aren’t intended to last forever and there comes a time when they’ll need to be replaced. But how can you tell when your veneers are ready to be swapped out? Here are a few signs your dentist thinks you should look out for!
1. The Veneers Are Dark or Stained
It’s true that veneers are incredibly resilient to staining and discoloration, but just like your natural pearly whites, they’re still capable of becoming tarnished over time—especially if you’re frequently consuming foods and beverages with staining agents. And what’s worse is that veneers cannot be whitened in the same way as natural teeth, meaning that if the stains aren’t lifting when you’re brushing, you’ll likely need to have them replaced in order to restore the beautiful smile you once had!
2. The Veneers Are Chipped or Cracked
Veneers are quite durable and capable of lasting for over 10 years under ideal circumstances. However, they can sustain physical damage such as chips or cracks from a variety of sources. When this happens, they’ll need to be replaced since it could affect your ability to talk or chew as normal.
3. Your Underlying Tooth Is Decayed
Veneers are designed to fit tightly over teeth to look as natural as possible; as they do this, they also block out cavity-causing bacteria. However, they can sometimes become loose and let this bacteria through, spawning decay in the underlying tooth. Needless to say, this is an issue that shouldn’t go untreated, and your dentist will need to remove the veneer to do so. Luckily, it can be replaced afterward.
4. The Veneers Feel Uncomfortable
By design, veneers aren’t very bulky or cumbersome, and you shouldn’t even feel them when you’re being worn since they’re customized for your smile. That said, if they aren’t properly fitted or become loose, they can quickly become uncomfortable to wear. They can also overhang and affect your bite. In any case, visiting your dentist can ensure that your veneers are fitted properly so that they look great and function optimally!
When you first receive your veneers, your dentist will tell you about some of the best practices for keeping them intact. These include maintaining excellent oral hygiene, avoiding bad oral habits, and regularly receiving dental care to prevent serious issues from developing. Though your veneers will need to be replaced at some point, knowing how to prolong their lifespan—as well as knowing how to identify signs of their failure—will allow you to get the most out of your new smile!
About the Author
Dr. Navi Dhaliwal received her dental doctorate from the University of Detroit Mercy and has proudly served patients and families in the Covington, WA community for several years! Her practice is thrilled to offer a wide range of services including numerous life-changing cosmetic solutions such as veneers. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to schedule a visit for yourself or a loved one, feel free to contact the practice online or over the phone for additional information or assistance. Telephone: (253) 243-6576.