Naturally strong teeth, some people are lucky enough to be born with them. For others, they can work to maintain and take care of their teeth as diligently as possible but they still experience wear and tear, discoloration, chips and misalignment. This is not only frustrating but can even be a frightening prospect, as it suggests a one-way street to tooth loss and dentures. However, there are steps you can take to provide longevity and beauty to your mouth and keep the teeth you already have. One such solution is the application of dental veneers.
What are dental veneers?
Dental veneers are a way to cosmetically repair imperfect teeth. In short, a dental veneer is made out of a thin shell that can be semi-permanently bonded to a damaged tooth to give it a new shine. Teeth that are chipped, discolored or scratched can be made to look new with the application of a dental veneer.
Are there different kinds of veneers?
Yes! Here at Integrated Aesthetic Dentistry, we will be happy to give you a consultation to help make sure you make the most informed choice possible, but at their most basic, there are two common types of dental veneers; porcelain and composite resin. Porcelain veneers tend to be more expensive, but also are far more durable, whereas composite resin veneers are a more affordable option that is likely to need replacement sooner.
How long do dental veneers last?
It’s important to state that there is no fixed expiration date on veneers. Factors that can affect the lifespan of a veneer are how well maintained they are, which material is chosen and personal habits, like smoking or the grinding of teeth. Generally speaking, you can expect that composite resin veneers can last between 5 and 10 years, and the sturdier porcelain veneers can realistically last between 10 and 15 years.
Do I have to maintain my veneers?
Should you decide that dental veneers are for you, it will be very important to treat them just as you would your natural teeth. This means brushing, flossing and general maintenance to reduce wear and tear as best you can. Even though dental veneers are made from durable materials, they can eventually break down just like any material. As always, we encourage good dental hygiene as the best way to keep your smile bright!
Do dental veneers sound like they might be a good fit for you? We encourage you to contact our capable and caring staff at Integrated Aesthetic Dentistry to see what we can do to help! Come to our offices in the heart of beautiful Tribeca in Manhattan and Dr. Caroline Barsoum or one of the other highly skilled professionals on our team will assess how dental veneers could help you!