Reasons for Porcelain Veneers Replacement By Stephen Dowell, DDS on October 04, 2018

Patients who are unhappy with the aesthetics of their smile may benefit from porcelain veneers at our Minerva, OH dental practice. Although veneers are strong and resilient, they are not invulnerable to damage.

Today, our team at Dowell Dental Group discusses reasons for porcelain veneers replacement and explains how the treatment process works.

About Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are tooth-colored fabrications designed for the front surfaces of the teeth. The primary objective is to conceal cosmetic imperfections, such as:

• Chips, cracks, or fractures
• Tooth discoloration
• Gaps or spaces between the teeth
• Slight misalignment
• Small or misshapen teeth

Average Lifespan of Porcelain Veneers

Although porcelain veneers are crafted from strong, durable, medical-grade ceramic, veneers will still need to be replaced at some point. On average, porcelain veneers last about 10 to 15 years. However, with stronger, more advanced materials and proper maintenance, they can last upwards of 20 years.

Common Reasons for Porcelain Veneer Replacement

There are several reasons why patients may consider replacing their porcelain veneers. The most common reasons for this include:

• Tooth decay: While porcelain is impervious to cavities, the tooth structure underneath is still vulnerable. Should decay develop under your veneers, your doctor will need to remove them before he or she can restore the teeth.
• Fractured veneers: Today’s dental veneers are durable and resilient, but there is nothing as strong as natural tooth enamel. Excessive pressure through bruxism, an improper bite, or trauma can cause veneers to chip or crack.
• Missing veneers: If a veneer comes off or is lost, it is important to replace it right away. Not only will a missing veneer have a negative impact on your smile, it will also compromise your oral health, as the underlying tooth structure is much more vulnerable to decay and damage.
• Discoloration: The porcelain used for today’s veneers is stain-resistant. However, the bonding material used to secure the veneers can become discolored over time. As a result, your smile may develop an unnatural appearance.
• Poor initial placement: Patients who are dissatisfied with the appearance of their veneers may wish to replace them entirely.

How Does the Treatment Process Work?

The process for veneer replacement is similar to your initial treatment. To begin, your doctor will carefully remove the old or damaged veneers. Next, a thin layer of enamel is removed to ensure optimal bonding. Once the teeth are prepared, impressions are taken and sent to a dental lab, where your veneers will be fabricated.

Finally, your dentist will check the fit and bond your new veneers in place. Typically, veneer replacement can be completed in just two office visits.

How to Care for Your Porcelain Veneers

Once you have received your veneers, you will want to care for them properly for long-lasting results. We recommend that patients:

• Brush at least twice a day and floss once daily
• Attend all scheduled dental examinations and cleanings
• Refrain from chewing on hard objects, such as ice, pens, pencils, or your fingernails
• Use a non-abrasive, ADA-accepted toothpaste

Contact Dowell Dental Group Today

Have one or more of your veneers become damaged? Are you unhappy with the appearance of your veneers? If so, porcelain veneers replacement could be the solution. To explore your options, schedule a consultation at our practice. Give us a call or contact Dowell Dental Group online.