Are Porcelain Veneers Removable or Permanent?
There are so many cosmetic dentistry procedures available, and yet one of the most popular treatments options continues to be porcelain veneers. These thin shells of dental ceramic can work wonders for your smile if you have crooked, stained, chipped, cracked, uneven, or gapped teeth. Dr. Bruce Wilderman has used porcelain veneers to revitalize smiles throughout the Philadelphia, PA area.
Many people have asked the team at Artistic Expressions Dentistry about the lifespan of porcelain veneers. There are many misconceptions out there about veneers and how they work, so we’d like to take a moment to consider how long they last and whether or not they can be taken off if needed.
How Porcelain Veneers Are Placed
Here’s a brief description of how porcelain veneers are initially placed.
First, the teeth are cleaned. A cosmetic dentist then removes a small amount of enamel from a tooth to accommodate the veneer. An impression is taken of the prepped tooth so the veneer can be created in a lab. The finished veneer is cemented into place securely so it fits snugly and looks natural.
How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?
On average, the porcelain veneers we place last about 10 years. Some of our cosmetic dentistry patients in the Bucks County area have made their porcelain veneers last longer thanks to good oral hygiene, but 10 years is a good average number.
So, to answer one of the questions alluded to above, no, porcelain veneers do not last forever.
Can Porcelain Veneers Be Removed?
Yes.
The porcelain veneer is securely adhered in place so it will not come off when biting and chewing, but that does not mean it is attached to a tooth permanently. A porcelain veneer can be removed, and it’s a good idea to remove the veneer when performing certain kinds of dental procedures.
Reasons Why Porcelain Veneers May Be Removed
Some common reasons why a porcelain veneer may be removed include:
- Tooth decay or acidic erosion affects the underlying tooth structure
- A tooth develops a root canal infection
- The underlying tooth becomes chipped or cracked
- The veneer has become worn and needs to be replaced
Replacing Porcelain Veneers
Whether you need restorative dental care or your veneers are old, the process of removing and replacing porcelain veneers at our Philadelphia dental center is relatively straightforward.
The veneer is carefully taken off the front of the tooth, leaving the natural tooth structure intact. Any necessary dental work is performed as needed. When the patient is ready, an impression is then taken of the tooth so a new veneer can be created and later placed.
Making Your Smile Makeover Last as Long as Possible
While porcelain veneers don’t last forever, it’s our goal to make sure cosmetic results and restorative dentistry benefits last as long as possible. During your visit to our practice, we’ll be sure to go over proper aftercare of your veneers and offer advice on how to make you smile makeover last for many, many years.
Learn More About Porcelain Veneers
To learn more about porcelain veneers and why they may be the right option for you and your needs, be sure to contact a skilled cosmetic dentist. Artistic Expressions Dentistry can be reached by phone in Bucks County at (215) 631-8505.