Veneers can be the perfect solution for those with discolored and mishappen teeth. They are the non-surgical way to get beautiful teeth without a long process. When problems with veneers do pop up, they are often easily solved. Read on to find out more.

How Long Do Veneers Last?

The life of your veneer varies. Several factors can affect the life of a veneer such as eating habits, dental hygiene practices, medication usage, and more. A veneer is meant to adhere to the front of a tooth that is unattractive in some way. They can cover stains, pits, cracks, and other imperfections that have nothing to do with the health of your teeth. It's nearly impossible to predict how long a veneer will last. 

When a veneer fails, it may begin peeling away at the outer edges. It's often the adhesive that attaches the veneer to the tooth that fails before the veneer, however. That is why it's important to get to the dentist right away if you notice a peeling veneer. Your dentist might be able to save the veneer and re-bond it to your tooth again. That is a lot less expensive than an entirely new veneer. 

What and How You Eat Matters

Your dentist probably warned you about foods and habits that can damage your veneers after they were applied. However, new veneers are often relatively impervious to damage because the bonding cement and the veneer are new. As time goes on, though, some who have veneers may become so used to them that they forget to watch what they eat. To preserve the life of your veneer, follow these tips, regardless of how long you have had them:

• Don't chew ice, hard candies, cough drops, and other hard foods.
• Avoid chewing tough or crunchy goods like meats, popcorn, and nuts.

Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)

Many people who live alone or sleep with heavy sleepers grind their teeth at night but may not know it. Your dentist, however, can usually tell if you grind your teeth at night. This habit can not only wreak havoc with your veneers but also can wear down all of your teeth and damage your enamel. Your dentist may suggest you wear a mouthguard at night.  

You May Have a Cavity

Unfortunately, having a veneer is no barrier to decay. Your tooth underneath the veneer can become decayed, placing your veneer in jeopardy. In most cases, the repair of the cavity may involve the removal of the veneer. However, unless it's damaged, the veneer can be replaced after the decay is treated. 

When problems pop up with your veneer, speak to your dentist right away. Contact a local clinic to learn more about veneers.