How Dental Laminates Can Protect Your Teeth

Suppose you're looking to extend the life of your teeth. In that case, you may be interested in dental laminates, which are an aesthetic way to improve the look of your smile while also protecting your natural teeth from bacteria and staining. But how long can laminates protect your teeth? Here's what you need to know about the longevity of laminates, including how to care for them, so they last long as possible!

What are laminates made of?

There are two basic materials that laminates are made of. The first is zirconia, which is a synthetic diamond. The second is porcelain or ceramic. Both materials can last for years if installed correctly, but it all depends on how you care about your smile's new enhancement. Talk to your dentist about proper dental hygiene for laminates, so you get many years of wear out of them.

Porcelain is a natural, translucent mineral that has been used for centuries in cosmetic dentistry because of its distinctive look and feel. It's also firm and wears well. Porcelain laminates are more expensive than those made from zirconia, but they also tend to last longer.

Types of dental laminate

There are a few different types of laminates to consider, each with its pros and cons. Standard laminates come in a wide variety of colors and styles. They can also be customized to fit your unique smile, which is why so many people opt for them over other types of tooth-colored composites. The most common type of laminate is an acrylic resin that comes in a powder form that must be mixed with water before use. Acrylic resins require two layers: one layer goes on your teeth as a bonding material, while another layer becomes durable and shiny once it's been cured by a U.V. light machine. Unlike acrylic resin composites, porcelain laminates do not require mixing or setting time; they can instantly go from application to wear.

Pros & cons of laminate veneers

The durability of a laminate varies from case to case. While some patients have been happy with their veneers for ten years or more, others claim that their veneers began to show signs of wear and tear as early as two years after being placed. The surface may become discolored, appear duller in texture, develop chips around its edges, or start cracks forming along its joints. Another potential problem is that laminates tend to bond poorly to older teeth, creating a weak point where a fracture could occur if accidentally struck.

Should you get laminates? 

If you're one of those people, then you've probably asked yourself how long dental laminates will last. While there isn't a definitive answer, it's fair to say that restorations, in general, tend to last about five years on average but may last longer or shorter depending on several factors. One factor is what you eat and drink. Foods and beverages with hard minerals like sugar, salt, and phosphorus can wear down your fillings faster than others. The pH levels in foods can also contribute to staining, which over time could damage your laminates.

It's up to you to decide whether laminates are worth it. There are certainly pros and cons, but one thing is certain: these aren't your grandfather's fillings. They protect your teeth for years longer than their predecessors, making them ideal for people who want to avoid repeat dental procedures or take better care of their smiles.

Request an appointment here: https://drcalldental.com or call Dr. Call Dental Center at (706) 425-6240 for an appointment in our Dalton office.

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