subject: Just How Durable are Porcelain Veneers? [print this page] If you have thought about fixing your crooked, misaligned, or stained teeth with porcelain veneers, you may already be aware that they are made of a thin shell of porcelain. This shell is 0.5 millimeters thick and covers the front of your teeth. You may also wonder just how strong that thin shell of porcelain is. Due to the way the veneer is bonded to the tooth, it is actually surprisingly strong. You can eat and drink as you normally would after you have gone through the porcelain veneer procedure.
Your porcelain veneers can last a long time if taken care of properly. This is done through the same way you take care of your natural teeth. However, just like your teeth, there is a limit to how much they can take before breaking. Also, veneers are attached to your teeth with bonding cement that can dissolve under certain situations.
Some things you can do to keep your veneers strong include:
Avoiding heavy consumption of alcohol or citrus juice (may dissolve bonding)
Avoid biting on hard object like ice, or using teeth as tools
Avoid frequent snacking
Brush and floss regularly to avoid gum disease and tooth decay
Use a mild and less abrasive toothpaste
Wear a mouthguard when playing sports
You should also ask your dentist about a night time oral appliance if you grind or clench your teeth when you sleep. This device acts like a mouthguard and will protect your teeth and your porcelain veneers.
The durability of your porcelain veneers is probably more than you think it is. They are long-lasting and are a very good solution to covering up minor imperfections you are unhappy with.
