Getting a reliable porcelain veneers dentist in London is a challenging thing. However, how long porcelain veneers will last still remains one of the prime concerns of people. Thus, we bring this blog today to clarify all your concerns regarding this procedure. Read on.
Introduction
In the world of cosmetic dentistry, there are numerous cheap options to improve (or restore) dental health and aesthetics. However, one of the biggest drawbacks of opting for such low-cost dental treatments is longevity. Most of the time, individuals complain that the restorations are not at all durable and are degrading day by day. Here comes the unmatched beauty of porcelain!
Although a bit expensive, porcelain stands out among the best and most preferred restorative components in dentistry. It is highly resistant to pressure, and can give long-lasting results to individuals suffering from imperfections like cracked tooth, chipped tooth, dental gaps and stained teeth.
How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?
Generally, porcelain veneers last up to ten or fifteen years. However, with proper care and maintenance, they can last up to two decades, even. Most reputed dental professionals in London prefer porcelain veneers over other alternatives because they are stain-resistant and have high integrity. Porcelain is also less prone to chipping, fracturing, and most importantly, its colour closely resembles to the natural tooth enamel.
Are Porcelain Veneers Safe?
If you worry about the safety of porcelain veneers; be assured. Porcelain veneers are bio-compatible and do not give rise to any side-effects. However, you must consult an experienced porcelain veneers dentist or a cosmetic dental professional before the process.
Obtaining porcelain veneers: Steps Explained
- Step 1 – Tooth preparation: First, the dentist shaves a thin layer of dental enamel. This helps in proper placing of the veneer such that it flushes with the other teeth. Without this step, the veneer may look unnatural and stick outside. In most cases, the dentist uses a local anaesthetic to reduce the discomfort associated with this procedure.
- Step 2 – Taking dental impressions: After your teeth have been prepared, the dentist will take their impressions and send them to a dental laboratory. There, your porcelain veneers are made in a customised way.
- Step 3 – Veneer fitting: In this step, the custom-made veneers are placed on your teeth. The doctor may also make additional adjustments, if needed.
- Step 4 – Bonding: Post-fitting of the porcelain veneers, they are cemented to your natural teeth. A dental adhesive is used to do this, followed by the application of a special light (to harden the cement).
- Step 5 – Final polishing and finishing: The veneers are polished to give them a natural, shiny and smooth appearance.
Once your porcelain veneers are installed, you need follow-ups to check whether the veneers are fitting and functioning properly. This helps you address potential concerns in advance.
How to Increase the Longevity of Porcelain Veneers?
To maximise the outcomes of your porcelain veneers, it is important to maintain some basic oral hygiene guidelines. They are as follows:
- Regular brushing and flossing: You must brush your teeth twice daily with medicated toothpaste (preferably those that have special formulations for veneers). Avoid toothpastes that have hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, etc., in them – they can damage the porcelain material.
You must also floss your teeth after every main meal. This is because food particles can accumulate in between teeth and along the edges of veneers, leading to potential dental problems in future. - Rinse the mouth every day with an alcohol-free antiseptic mouthwash: Doing this daily can kill harmful oral microbes, thus keeping your teeth healthy and strong.
- Stay away from compulsive chewing habits: Do not chew or bite on substances, such as, pencils, ice cubes, fingernails, etc.
- Avoid hard food items such as candies and popcorn kernels: These can increase the chances of your porcelain veneers to get damaged quickly.
- Use a mouth guard: You must wear a mouth guard especially if there is an existing problem of teeth grinding (medical term ‘bruxism’).
- Quit unhealthy habits such as tobacco chewing, smoking, alcoholism, etc.: These practices can potentially stain your veneers and pave the way for oral cancers and other heath disorders.
Do Porcelain Veneers Last a Lifetime?
Well, if you can follow your oral care routine consistently, your porcelain veneers can last a lifetime. However, it is best not to have unrealistic expectations. In practical cases, you will require to replace your veneers once or twice in your lifetime. Worry not – the replacement procedure is very easy and quick. The dentist will simply remove the worn-out veneer, take the new dental impressions and send to a laboratory. When the new veneers are ready, they are placed over your natural teeth.
When Do You Need Veneers Replacement?
Once your porcelain veneer starts to wear out or accidentally breaks, a quick replacement is needed. Look out for the following signs – these will help you know if it is time to change the porcelain veneers.
- A dull look and absence of initial lustre
- Discolouration
- Physical signs of wear
- Cracks and chips
- Loosening of bonding cement and the veneers
- Cavities developing beneath the natural teeth
- Gum recession
If you are consistent in your bi-annual dental checkups, your dentist must be able to detect the time when to replace your porcelain veneers —even before the signs have started to appear.
On the scheduled day, the dentist will gently take off the old veneer and a small layer of enamel. They will make impressions for your new veneer and give you a temporary one to use until the final restoration is done. Next, they will attach the new veneer to your tooth just as they did previously. If your tooth lacks enough enamel to hold a new veneer, the dentist might suggest a crown instead.
Conclusion
Porcelain veneers are one of the most durable dental restorative techniques available. Although the initial investment may seem high, it prevents you from more invasive and costlier procedures down the line. For professional guidance, book your consultation with any of your locally available porcelain veneers dentist at MD.co.uk today!
