Veneers are layered coatings that dentists attach to your teeth with a special adhesive to improve your smile and enhance your natural appearance. Veneers go over existing teeth, but preparation is required before they are applied.
As with most cosmetic dentistry, veneers don’t tend to last a lifetime and will need replacing at some stage of the treatment. For instance, if there’s no unnatural damage caused by trauma or poor adhesive, veneers can last for years. This, however, depends on the material they are made from.
Porcelain veneers will need replacing every 10-15 years, whereas composite veneers need more regular replacements – usually every 5 years. With the right care, some veneers can last up to 20 years.
Below, you’ll find more information on why veneers might need replacing, as well as what you can do to increase the longevity of your veneers.
Gums are pulling back
Over time, you might find that your gums start to recede. This may be a direct cause of the veneers (underlying gum irritation can provoke them to pull back) or as a consequence of poor dental hygiene. Once this happens, you may notice a gap in between your gum and the veneers, which can appear discoloured or stained. To remove this gap and improve the appearance of your smile, it’s worth having your veneers replaced.
Veneers are chipped or cracked
Physical trauma can cause your veneers to become cracked or damaged. When this happens, you should replace them as soon as possible. Contact sports like rugby and boxing are particularly bad for veneer wearers, so they should be avoided where possible.
They feel uncomfortable to wear
If your veneers are uncomfortable, it’s a good idea to replace them. This includes any discomfort when eating, chewing, speaking, or if you notice more frequent headaches or jaw pain. It may be that your dentist hasn’t considered your bite and has given you ill-fitting veneers.
Underlying tooth is decayed
Veneers only cover the front section of your teeth, meaning the back is still open to decay. If the rest of the tooth becomes worn due to decay, it can cause your veneers to loosen and fall off. If this happens, they’ll need replacing, and you might even need additional treatment on your tooth before the veneer is refitted. To avoid this, ensure you maintain a consistently high level of oral hygiene.
Veneers are dark or stained
If your veneers are discoloured or stained, they need replacing. A few possible reasons why veneers turn black include diet, improper oral hygiene, and discolouration of the adhesive. When you start to notice darker stains on your veneers, contact your dentist to replace them.
They are rough around the edges
As with other cosmetic dentistry treatments, veneers aren’t excluded from regular wear and tear. Over time, your veneers may start to become rough and worn around the edges. When this happens, it’s a certain sign that they need replacing.
Book a consultation for veneer treatment today!
Contact us at Toorak Dental Studio or book an online consultation today if you’re thinking about cosmetic dentistry treatments like veneers. Have a chat with one of our friendly dentists, who will talk you through the process of getting veneers so you can discover whether it’s right for you.