Porcelain veneers can have a dramatic effect on your smile’s appearance. These thin shells are fitted over the front of your teeth, improving everything from shape to color. While they are very effective, they are not designed to last forever and eventually need replacement. Here are five signs it’s time to visit your dentist for a new set.

When to Replace Your Veneers

1. Discoloration

This type of blemish is an early sign of a problem with porcelain veneers. Over time, the cement designed to keep the shells in place can become darker. Because their material is thin, the darkening substance grows more visible. As a result, the veneers will appear discolored.

2. Roughness

Veneers feel smooth and normal for quite a while before showing signs of age. However, like regular teeth, they are vulnerable to damage caused by chewing and biting. You may eventually find that they feel rough, especially around the edges. This situation will cause them to wear down and lose their integrity, causing the shells to appear different.

3. Decay

There are many reasons you can develop a cavity under a veneer. For example, the shell may have been loose when first installed, allowing bacteria to accumulate underneath. Even poor dental care habits, such as neglecting to floss, cause decay to occur. Once this happens, the layer covering the affected area can loosen and detach. Your dentist will need to remove the veneer and treat the decay before replacing it.

4. Fit

These shells look and feel like natural teeth, leaving you comfortable and confident after a dentist places them. While it can take a moment to adjust to veneers, they shouldn’t feel uncomfortable after a week or two. If the discomfort remains, the layers aren’t properly fitted. They require replacement to avoid affecting your bite, leading to headaches and jaw pain.

5. Stains

While porcelain is resistant to stains, the material can still take on a damaged appearance with time. Scratches can form, either from eating something sharp or using abrasive toothpaste. These tiny blemishes can trap food particles, causing veneers to look stained and eventually lead to plaque formation. 

If you seek a reliable dentist to replace your porcelain veneers, visit Carter S. Yokoyama, DDS. Proudly serving patients throughout Kailua-Kona, HI, this dentist provides top-quality dental care in a comforting environment. Offering a broad range of cosmetic dentistry services, including porcelain veneers and teeth whitening treatments, he will ensure your teeth look their best. Visit the dental spa online to learn how he can help maintain your smile, and call (808) 322-0101 to schedule an appointment.