Are Dental Laminates Permanent?

You are unhappy with your smile and considering getting dental laminates. Laminates, commonly referred to as veneers, fix a variety of cosmetic issues. The laminates are bonded to the teeth and hide imperfections such as chips, cracks and stains. Before you get veneers, you want to know if the restorations are permanent and if they are not, how long they will last.

Making dental laminates last

Dental veneers are not a permanent dental restoration. Veneers typically last 10-15 years, but these restorations last for decades in some cases. Some people actually keep veneers for a lifetime even though this is not a permanent restoration. Patients have some control over how long the restoration lasts.

Choose the right material

Patients have two main options when selecting dental laminates. Some choose composite veneers since the restoration is cheaper. However, composite is prone to chipping and rarely last longer than eight years. Porcelain veneers are much stronger and longer-lasting.

Avoid bad habits

Just like regular teeth, dental veneers often fail due to bad habits. Avoid chewing on objects such as ice cubes and fingernails. People should also avoid using teeth to open packages. This act can cause the veneers to chip or break off completely.

In addition, smokers should stop as soon as possible. Smoking causes a variety of dental issues, including periodontal disease. Dentists often have to remove veneers to treat oral issues caused by smoking. Then a different restoration might be required.

Limit soda consumption

Soda contains phosphoric acid. This acid can damage both natural teeth and dental veneers. While people can drink a can of soda from time to time, regular consumption can cause the veneers to fail. Those who cannot live without soda should drink it out of a straw, so it does not come in direct contact with the restorations.

Protect the veneers

Veneers should be protected against strong forces that can cause them to fail. Those who play contact sports should wear mouthguards to protect the restorations. Also, people who suffer from bruxism should wear a mouthguard, so they do not put undue force on the veneers. Dentists can take impressions of teeth and make custom-fitted mouthguards for patients.

Brush and floss daily

It is also important to protect the teeth located under the dental laminates. Patients need to brush with an electric or manual toothbrush two times a day. Daily flossing is also recommended. This removes the bacteria on the sides of the teeth. If the bacteria remain between the teeth, these will eventually cause the natural tooth to decay.

Keep your dental laminates for decades

You can keep your dental veneers for years and years if you take care of them. Start by choosing the right material. Avoid bad habits and limit your soda consumption. Protect the restorations and brush and floss each day to protect the veneers and the rest of your teeth. Also, go to the dentist twice a year for a professional exam and cleaning to protect your veneers and your natural teeth.

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