Porcelain Veneers Replacement By John Meola on October 17, 2013

If you have suffered from cosmetically flawed teeth, you may have received porcelain veneers. Though porcelain veneers are durable and long-lasting, they may not last a lifetime. The lifespan of porcelain veneers are affected by many factors. Chewing on hard items, like pen caps or ice, can damage veneers, leading to the need for replacement. Proper care and maintenance can help prolong the life of your veneers. If you find your porcelain veneers are chipped, yellowed, or otherwise damaged, consider scheduling veneers replacement with one of our Boston cosmetic dentists.

When Should I Have My Porcelain Veneers Replaced?

Though porcelain veneers will last many years with proper care and maintenance, they may require replacement at some point. On average, porcelain veneers will last over 10 years but may need to be replaced sooner if you do not care for them properly. Porcelain veneers may require replacement for any one of the following reasons:

Porcelain veneers have become yellowed or stained: Porcelain is rather stain resistant, however, certain foods and drinks and discolor the veneers. Red wine and coffee are notorious for staining veneers. For most patients, professional cleaning and polishing is often enough to restore the color of the veneer but in some cases this is not adequate and the veneers must be replaced.
Chipped or damaged veneers: Porcelain veneers may become chipped or fractured through injury or improper care. Chewing on hard items like ice, pen caps, and fingernails can damage veneers. Damaged veneers can only be repaired with total veneer replacement.
Unhappy with initial results of veneers treatment: Some people who undergo porcelain veneer treatment may be unhappy with the final results, which is why it is vital to choose a skilled, experienced cosmetic dentist. For those who are unhappy with the results of porcelain veneer treatment, replacement treatment may be performed to correct the initial treatment.
Decay around the veneers: Even after veneers treatment, the natural teeth are still susceptible to decay, which is why it is vital to continue to practice proper oral hygiene after veneers placement. If the teeth are not cared for properly, decay may develop under the porcelain veneers. The veneers may need to be removed in order to care for any decay. Once the decay is removed, the veneers may be replaced.

Tips to Help Prolong the Life of Your Porcelain Veneers

You can help prolong the life of your porcelain veneers by following these useful tips:

Practice proper oral hygiene: The teeth are still susceptible to decay and cavities after porcelain veneer treatment. Practice proper oral hygiene including brushing at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day to reduce your risk of decay.
Avoid abrasive toothpaste: Abrasive toothpastes can wear down porcelain veneers and should be avoided.
See your dentist regularly: See your dentist regularly to ensure your porcelain veneers are in their best condition.
Do not chew on hard items: Avoid chewing on hard items and using your teeth as tools. Chewing on hard items like plastic pen caps or using your teeth to open packages can chip or fracture veneers.