Reasons for Porcelain Veneer Replacement
At Verde Pointe Dental Associates, we offer a variety of cosmetic procedures to enhance your smile. One of the most common treatments among our Marietta, GA patients is porcelain veneers.
Veneers are made from several layers of medical-grade ceramic and mimic the translucency of the natural teeth. Even though porcelain veneers are strong, durable, and made to last, they can still become damaged.
Here, our team discusses some of the most common reasons for porcelain veneer replacement and explains how you can maintain your veneers for years to come.
Lifespan of Porcelain Veneers
First, it is important to understand that porcelain veneers, although strong, will not last forever. On average, the lifespan for porcelain veneers is about 10 to 15 years. With special care and proper maintenance, they may even last upwards of 20 years in some cases.
When Should You Consider Replacing Your Porcelain Veneers?
There are several instances in which porcelain veneers may need to be replaced. If damage occurs, through decay or trauma, then replacement may become necessary.
We may recommend porcelain veneer replacement if you have:
- A damaged veneer: Blunt force trauma or injury can cause a veneer to chip or fracture. This may also occur if you chew on hard objects, such as ice.
- Damage to the natural tooth: Porcelain veneers are impervious to decay. However, the natural tooth underneath is not. Therefore, if a treated tooth develops more decay, your dentist will likely need to replace your veneer.
- Loose veneers: Over time, the bonding material used to hold your veneers in place may weaken or erode. In these instances, you may require porcelain veneer replacement.
- Tooth discoloration: The veneers themselves are stain-resistant. However, if you develop severe discoloration on the surrounding teeth, your teeth may appear uneven in color. In some cases, porcelain veneer replacement may be necessary.
What to Do if a Veneers Breaks or Falls Off
In the event that your veneer breaks or falls off, you should call us right away. We will evaluate the situation to determine if replacement is necessary.
If so, we will remove the damaged veneers, take impressions, and place a temporary veneer. Once our dental lab fabricates your new veneer, we will schedule you for an appointment to bond it into place.
In most cases, porcelain veneer repair is not likely. When a veneer becomes chipped or cracked, the overall structure is compromised, and optimal aesthetic results are often not achievable. For this reason, replacement is usually recommended over repair.
How to Protect and Maintain Your Porcelain Veneers
There are a few ways in which you can protect your porcelain veneers and reduce the risk of damage. First, it is important to visit your dentist regularly for exams and cleanings. This will allow your doctor to monitor your oral health and detect any problems before they worsen.
Second, practice good oral hygiene at home. Brush twice a day. Floss once daily. Ask your dentist or hygienist for recommendations on specific products and techniques.
Learn More about Porcelain Veneers at Verde Pointe Dental Associates
If you are considering porcelain veneers or think you may need to replace your current ones, schedule a visit at our practice. Contact Verde Pointe Dental Associates online or call us at (770) 423-4900.