If you’re considering veneers in Greenville, SC, you may be asking if this procedure is permanent or if it can be undone in the future. So, continue reading to gain the information you need to help decide on your cosmetic dentistry procedure.

Sample of veneers in Greenville SC

Duration, Permanence, Advantages, and Alternatives of Dental Veneers

Permanence

Dental veneers are permanent and not intended to be removed. They typically last between four and 12 years but if one becomes loose, degrades, or cracks, you’ll need to get it changed.  

The downside of opting for dental veneers is that the course of treatment cannot ever be changed. Why? Because your dentist will need to remove some of your natural enamel when you receive veneers. This process cannot be undone once it has been completed.  

Even though this coating of enamel is extremely thin, the original tooth must nevertheless be protected. Your remaining teeth would be weaker and more vulnerable to injury and decay if your veneers were removed. 

Your teeth will be completely covered by your veneers and firmly bonded to them, keeping them sturdy and in good shape. In some circumstances, veneers can help strengthen your teeth. 

Duration

When it comes to the specifics of veneer lifespan, there are a few variables to consider. The kind of veneer material you select is most crucial if you want it to last long. Because porcelain veneers are more enduring and robust than composite resin ones, the former is often used. 

While porcelain veneers typically last around 10 years, many patients keep them for years longer. In comparison, composite resin veneers have a lifespan of only four to eight years and are considerably more likely to chip and break. 

Your personal habits and oral hygiene come next. You still need to practice good oral hygiene even though you are getting cosmetic shells bonded over your teeth. 

If you don’t consistently brush and floss, you’re still prone to getting gum disease and tooth decay, which might endanger your veneers and your entire set of teeth. You must prevent deterioration and discoloration as much as possible. 

Avoid using your teeth to open packages, chewing on hard, crunchy, or chewy foods, smoking, and consuming foods and beverages that can stain. Patients who grind their teeth should not have veneers without getting nightguards. 

Advantages

The main advantage of veneers is that they make your teeth look better, making your smile brighter and more even. The following cosmetic issues are frequently treated with dental veneers: 

  • Cracked or fractured teeth 
  • Broken or chipped teeth 
  • Severe discoloration or uneven coloring that can’t be fixed with teeth whitening 
  • Gaps in the teeth 
  • Smaller-than-average teeth 
  • Pointed or unusually shaped teeth 

Alternatives

Veneers are undoubtedly a terrific way to improve your smile, but since they can’t be removed, you should think carefully about whether or not they’re the right treatment for you. To ensure you obtain the finest results, you will need to take excellent care of your teeth and veneers in the future. 

There are various treatments you can try if you don’t like the thought of a permanent, irreversible procedure. Teeth whitening is a fantastic, entirely non-invasive solution for correcting stained and yellowed teeth. 

But teeth whitening can’t change the shape of your teeth. If you’re interested in that, a procedure like dental bonding would be a better choice. With dental bonding, you can correct problems like gaps in your smile, crooked and uneven teeth, and stains by applying tooth-colored dental resin directly to your tooth. 

While Lumineers® are an option, they are less successful at hiding significant discoloration and other oral flaws. Additionally, they are not as strong as conventional veneers, which raises the possibility of damage or fracture in the years to come. 

Ultimately, the decision will come down to a combination of your wants and what the dentist thinks is best for your unique situation. If you ever have any concerns, please don’t be afraid to ask. 

woman with veneers in Greenville SC

With Veneers in Greenville SC, You Can Permanently Improve Your Smile!

You shouldn’t make the decision to get veneers carelessly. You have to fully commit to caring for your veneers, getting them updated as needed on a regular basis, and realizing that they are a long-lasting, irreversible operation. 

Contact us at Pelham Links Family and Cosmetic Dentistry right away if you’re certain that veneers are the best solution to hide your dental flaws. To determine whether you qualify for veneers, our experienced dental professionals will conduct a consultation with you. We can’t wait to see you, so we can help you transform your smile.