How Do I Know When to Replace My Dental Work?

• Construction: The materials used in the construction of your veneers can impact the useful life or your dental work. As a rule, resin veneers do not last as long as those constructed out of porcelain. Porcelain veneers can last from 10 to 15 years.
• Dental Hygiene and Personal Habits: If you have issues with tooth grinding (bruxism), your crowns and veneers may not last as long as in people who do not have that habit. Poor dental hygiene, too, takes its toll even on crowns and veneers. Although the artificial part of the crown cannot decay as do normal teeth, remember that the crown is attached to a real tooth. That tooth can, and often does, become decayed if you have poor dental hygiene.
• Your Mouth's Chemical Balance: Certain medical conditions or eating habits can cause your mouth to become too acidic. That, in turn, can cause your veneers and crowns to break down more quickly. As a part of routine dental checkups, some dentists check the acidity of their patients' saliva using pH strips. Depending upon the result, those dentists may work with their patients to help them choose a diet that will give their dental work a longer lifespan.

• Negative Changes in Appearance: Over time, your dental work may shift relative to their position in your mouth. These shifts can affect your appearance. If your gum line recedes, the place where your crown ends may become visible. The color of your dental work may change over the years, causing a mismatch with the rest of your teeth.
• Worn or Damaged Dental Work: Obviously, if your old dental work gets broken or chipped, it's time for a change. Yet some damage from wear is more subtle. If you grind your teeth, your crowns may develop small holes. Even though you may not be able to see this damage, your dentist will see it during your routine checkup and alert you to the need to replace it.
• Dislodged Veneers: Your veneers can become dislodged or even pop off. Generally, they can be replaced, providing that the tooth underneath is healthy.

Cosmetic dentist Dr. Caven and his experienced team help you find your best smile. Offering advanced technology in Jacksonville, Florida for a variety of cosmetic dental services, Dr. Caven offers a versatile range of solutions for healthy smiles.

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