How Long Do Porcelain Veneers
Last?
It is difficult to put a number of years for a
lifespan for porcelain
veneers. They won't really wear out during a human lifespan. If they
aren't well cared for, the bonding material can ditch and deteriorate. Or
they can be damaged and need to be replaced.
Let's compare this question to two other
questions. For example, how long do automobile tires last? Tire
manufacturers can give you a pretty accurate idea. Every time you drive,
some of the rubber wears off onto the road, and for a particular tire they
will tell you how many miles it is expected to hold up before it is so
thin that it becomes a safety hazard.
But now let's ask, how long does an oak bookcase
last? Well, an oak bookcase isn't going to wear out. It can be damaged,
however. If you move frequently and the movers aren't careful, it can get
dings and scratches. If your children race metal cars on one of the
shelves or spill water on it, it can deteriorate quickly. If you overload
it, a shelf can break. If you paint the room and don't protect it, you can
splatter paint on it. But if you just put it against the wall and display
books and figurines on it, and don't abuse it, there is no set lifespan.
Porcelain veneers, when they are done correctly, are like the bookcase. They
don't wear. And they are bonded tightly to your tooth, so, even though
they are thin, they derive strength from your teeth. If you bite pins or
other metal objects, you can chip an edge. If you consume alcohol heavily,
you can dissolve away the bonding agent at the edges of the veneers. If
another dental office uses power polishing equipment on them, the surface
can become rough and porous and the porcelain will then stain very easily.
They can also become scratched or chipped from improper maintenance
techniques. If you snack frequently, you can get cavities on the edges
(although these cavities can be repaired).
So, take good care of your porcelain veneers.
Brush and floss daily. Have your regular dental checkups. Don't abuse
them, and they will last many years.
Other questions:
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