Did you know that an estimated 600,000 Americans get veneers every year? This treatment continues to gain popularity as a versatile and long-lasting solution for various aesthetic concerns, like stains, chips, cracks, mild gaps, or slight misalignments.
These ceramic shells are customized to look like your teeth, then bonded to the front surfaces to perfect your appearance. Plus, they can potentially last 15+ years, though they aren’t completely invincible and might eventually require replacements. If you’re unsure whether you need new veneers, read on to learn 3 signs that it’s time to call your dentist!
Indicator #1: They’re Damaged
Veneers are usually made out of resilient porcelain that’s coated with a glaze durable enough to resist additional chipping and staining. However, they’re not impervious to harm, and certain habits could tint, break, or otherwise hurt them.
For example, eating overly hard or crunchy foods can potentially fracture the material, or they can simply wear down eventually after years’ worth of daily biting and chewing. Because the teeth beneath them had to be thinned for veneers to fit, they’re somewhat more vulnerable to damage and decay without a restoration in place. Whatever the reason behind it, the broken ceramic is at risk of further injuries and should be replaced.
Indicator #2: They’re Unstable
These covers are made to match or improve the natural look of your own enamel before they’re cemented to the fronts of your teeth to perfect your grin. This is done using a resin-based adhesive that can also be color-customized for seamless results. Plus, like the shells themselves, it can last 10 to 20+ years if it’s properly maintained.
However, if you consume too many acidic foods and drinks or alcoholic beverages, the bonding material can start to dissolve, destabilizing your veneers. Then, eating overly hard, crunchy, or sticky foods might inadvertently push or yank them off your teeth. If your restorations feel loose, call your dentist to find out if they should be reattached or replaced.
Indicator #3: You Don’t Like How They Look
Veneers are considered a cosmetic treatment because they’re intended to improve your looks more than enhance your dental health. With them in place, you enjoy boosted confidence and peace of mind knowing that you look and feel like the best version of yourself. This, in turn, can increase your daily quality of life by contributing to better professional opportunities, deeper relationships, and a busier social calendar.
If your veneers have developed stains, chips, cracks, or are pulling away from your enamel, you might try to remain tight-lipped to avoid being judged by others. It’s worth investing in additional upgrades to restore your self-esteem.
If you’re still unsure whether you need new veneers, consulting your dentist is the best way to find out!
About the Practice
At Dentistry by Brand, you and your family benefit from a team of dentists who share more than 40 years of combined experience, so you can trust that your smile is well cared for. They welcome patients of all ages and take the time to establish lasting relationships so that when a problem arises, they can quickly tailor treatments to meet your unique needs. Plus, they offer a comprehensive menu of services, including veneers, utilizing state-of-the-art equipment at one convenient location. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (972) 495-9009.