Do Your Porcelain Veneers Need Replacement? By Alex Hecht on April 23, 2016

Many patients turn to porcelain veneers for their ability to quickly and painlessly transform the smile. Porcelain veneers can address the shape, size, and color of individual teeth, creating a flawless smile in almost no time. Porcelain veneers provide long lasting results and may require replacement at some point. For more information about porcelain veneers replacement, schedule a consultation with Staten Island, NY dentists Alex or Jason Hecht.

When Do Porcelain Veneers Need to Be Replaced?

Porcelain veneers treatment provides long lasting results, but the veneers will likely need to be replaced at some point. With proper care and maintenance, most porcelain veneers will last well over ten years. Veneers may require replacement due to general wear and tear from years of use or from the following issues:

Tooth decay: Porcelain veneers only cover the front of the teeth, leaving the back and areas just at the gum line vulnerable to decay. If decay occurs within teeth treated with porcelain veneers, the veneers will need to be removed in order to treat the decay and restore oral health.
Loose porcelain veneer: The material used to bond porcelain veneers to the teeth may weaken over time, leading to loose veneers. If a veneer becomes loose, the underlying tooth will be at increased risk of enamel erosion and decay. Loose veneers need to be replaced as soon as possible to protect the health of the underlying teeth.
Broken or fractured porcelain veneer: Although porcelain veneers are extremely durable, they can break if mistreated. Chewing on hard metal or plastic pen caps, using the teeth to open packages, or biting on the fingernails can cause veneers to become damaged, requiring immediate replacement.
Scratches on porcelain veneers: Porcelain veneers can become scratch from brushing with harsh, abrasive toothpastes and hard-bristled toothbrushes. Pigments from foods and drinks can get stuck in these scratches, causing the veneers to become discolored.
Color of veneers no longer matches teeth: Veneers won't discolor like the natural teeth and won't respond to teeth whitening, which can lead to noticeable differences in tooth color over time. Differences in color will need to be corrected with new veneers.

Aftercare Tips to Prolong the Life of Porcelain Veneers

Practicing proper aftercare can help prolong the life of your porcelain veneers, while also keeping your smile healthy and happy. Follow these aftercare tips to keep your veneers at their best for years to come.

Practice good oral hygiene habits: Practicing good oral hygiene habits, including brushing twice a day and flossing once a day, can help reduce the risk of tooth decay and dental discoloration and prolong the life of your veneers.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush: Using a soft-bristled toothbrush can help prevent scratches from developing on porcelain veneers, keeping them looking their best for many years.
Avoid abrasive toothpastes: Abrasive toothpastes can scratch the surface of veneers and should be avoided.
Don't chew on pen caps or fingernails: Chewing on hard items, like pen caps and fingernails, can damage veneers, causing them to chip or fracture. Try chewing on sugar-free gum instead.
Schedule regular dental exams and cleanings: Regular dental exams and cleanings are important for ensuring the health of the teeth and gums and maintaining dental prostheses, like porcelain veneers.