Veneers: How Long They Last and How to Make Them Last Longer

Introduction

Thinking about getting veneers? Or maybe you’ve already taken that step to improve your smile. Either way, it’s a solid decision—veneers can enhance your teeth dramatically in just a few dental visits. But one question tends to come up often: how long do veneers last? And what can you do to make sure they stay in top shape?

At Smile Dental Group, we know your smile matters. With just a little attention and everyday care, your veneers can look great for many years.

What Are Veneers?

Veneers are slim, durable shells—typically made from porcelain—that cover the front side of your teeth. Each one is custom-designed to blend in with the natural or original shape and color of your teeth. They’re great for covering flaws and giving your smile a polished, uniform look.

Common things veneers can correct:

• Gaps between teeth
• Stains or discoloration that don’t go away with whitening
• Slightly crooked or uneven teeth
• Chips or cracks

Though mostly cosmetic, veneers also add some strength to your teeth by shielding them from wear and tear.

How Long Do Veneers Last?

On average, porcelain veneers hold up for 10 to 15 years. With excellent care, some people even keep theirs intact for up to 20 years.

A few things that influence how long they’ll last:

• Daily brushing and flossing habits
• If you grind or clench your teeth at night
• The foods and drinks you consume
• Regular checkups with your dentist
• Quality of the dentist’s work during the procedure

If you’ve been browsing for dental veneers near me, be sure the provider you choose has experience and a strong track record with cosmetic dentistry.

Tips to Help Veneers Last Longer

Let’s face it—veneers are an investment. So it only makes sense to take good care of them. The good news? It’s easier than you might think.

1. Treat Them Like Real Teeth

Brush and floss as regular like you would with your natural teeth. A non-abrasive toothpaste works best to protect the surface.

2. Cut Back on Crunchy Foods

Skip biting straight into hard foods like ice or almonds. Cut them up first to avoid putting too much pressure on your veneers.

3. Prevent Grinding

Nighttime teeth grinding can wear down veneers. If it’s an issue, ask your dentist about a custom night guard.

4. Watch the Staining Culprits

While porcelain resists stains, the surrounding natural teeth don’t. Limiting red wine, coffee, and tobacco helps keep your whole smile uniform.

5. Don’t Miss Your Cleanings

See your dentist at least twice a year. If you’re looking for a dentist in Burnaby, BC, make sure they’re familiar with veneer maintenance.

Habits to Avoid

Certain habits can shorten the life of your veneers. Try to stay away from these:

• Utilizing your teeth to open bottles or packages
• Biting nails or chewing on pens
• Skipping daily flossing
• Smoking, which stains and weakens the bond

Small changes in these habits can make a big difference in preserving your new smile.

Veneers vs. Natural Teeth: What to Know

Veneers are strong, but they don’t regenerate like real teeth. If one chips or cracks, it needs to be replaced. Unlike your natural enamel, veneers can’t repair themselves—so prevention is key.

It’s important to work with a trusted cosmetic dentist near you who can explain the entire process and help you make certain if veneers are the right fit for your goals and lifestyle.

What Happens When Veneers Wear Out?

Like anything else, veneers age over time. You might notice:

• Chipping along the edges
• Discoloration around the gum line
• Loosening or shifting
• Gums receding

Your options at that point may include:

• Replacing the veneers
• Switching to crowns if more tooth coverage is needed
• Whitening nearby teeth to keep the shade consistent

If you keep up with routine visits and your records are current, replacements are usually straightforward.

Signs It’s Time for a Replacement

Here are some red flags:

• The veneer feels loose
• Visible chips or deep stains
• The tooth underneath starts hurting
• Your bite feels “off” or your speech changes

If any of these pop up, don’t wait—schedule a visit before the issue worsens.

Final Thoughts

Veneers can be a game-changer—not just for how you look, but for how you feel. With consistent care and a little attention to your daily habits, they can stay beautiful for well over a decade.

At Smile Dental Group, we’ve guided many patients through their smile makeovers with dental veneers in Burnaby, BC. Whether you’re considering veneers for the first time or you’re figuring out how to take care of the ones you already have, we’re here to help you keep that smile going strong.