Veneers can change the look of a smile, so it makes sense to wonder how long that change will last before you commit. It is one of the most common questions people ask when they are thinking about cosmetic dental work.
The short answer is that veneers are long-lasting, but they are not permanent. This guide explains what research says about how long veneers tend to last, what can shorten their life and how to help yours stay in good shape.
How long do veneers usually last?
There is no fixed expiration date for a veneer. How long one lasts depends on the material, how well it is bonded to the tooth, the forces it takes from biting and chewing, and how it is cared for over time.
Research on porcelain veneers is encouraging. A 2021 systematic review in the Journal of Clinical Medicine looked at clinical studies of porcelain laminate veneers and estimated a 10-year cumulative survival rate of 95.5%. In other words, in those studies the large majority of porcelain veneers were still in place and working after a decade.
It helps to know what "survival" means in this kind of research. The review did not count slight marginal defects or slight discoloration at the edges as failures. So a veneer can be counted as surviving even if it has picked up some minor wear or staining that a person might still want to have looked at.
Do porcelain and composite veneers last the same amount of time?
The American Dental Association (ADA) describes two main types of veneers:
- Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made shells that fit over the front surface of the teeth. The ADA describes them as strong, long-lasting and natural-looking.
- Composite veneers are made from a tooth-colored filling material that is bonded directly to the tooth. The ADA notes that they may require less enamel to be removed, but they are not as stain-resistant or wear-resistant as porcelain.
Because composite is more prone to staining and wear, it may need more upkeep, such as polishing or repair, to keep looking its best. Your dentist can explain the tradeoffs of each material for your teeth and goals.
What makes a veneer fail or need replacing?
According to the ADA, a veneer may chip, crack, wear down or loosen over time, which can mean your dentist needs to re-bond, repair or replace it.
The 2021 review found that fracture was the most common complication of porcelain veneers, followed by debonding, which means the veneer coming loose from the tooth. Both happened more often within the first years after the veneers were placed. New decay and the need for root canal treatment were less common.
The review also pointed to a few factors linked to how well veneers held up:
- Design and material. Veneers that covered the biting edge of the tooth and veneers made from non-feldspathic porcelain had lower failure rates in the studies reviewed.
- Bonding to enamel. The authors note that bonding is generally more reliable on enamel than on the deeper dentin layer, which is one reason careful planning matters.
- Teeth grinding. The authors note that grinding (bruxism) is believed to have a negative effect on long-term survival, and one included study found a higher failure rate in people who grind their teeth.
Are veneers right for everyone?
Not always. The ADA notes that veneers may not be a good choice if you clench or grind your teeth or have a deep overbite. Any dental problems, such as tooth decay or gum disease, need to be treated first, because placing veneers over unhealthy teeth may make existing problems worse.
It is also important to know that porcelain veneer treatment is not reversible. The ADA explains that a small amount of enamel is removed from the front and sides of the tooth to prepare it for bonding. Because enamel does not grow back, it is worth taking time to decide before starting treatment.
The ADA also cautions that veneer services from unlicensed individuals may carry risks of infection and nerve damage, so it is worth confirming that your care is provided by a licensed dentist.
How can you help your veneers last longer?
Many of the habits that protect natural teeth also protect veneers. The ADA recommends:
- Avoiding biting your fingernails or chewing on hard objects or foods
- Being mindful of drinks and foods that can stain, such as coffee, tea and red wine
- Keeping up with brushing and cleaning between your teeth, since you can still get cavities under or around a veneer
- Seeing your dentist regularly so small problems can be found early
If you know or suspect that you grind or clench your teeth, mention it at your visit. Your dentist can look for signs of wear and talk with you about ways to protect your teeth and any dental work.
What signs mean a veneer should be checked?
Contact your dentist if you notice any of the following:
- A chip, crack or rough edge on a veneer
- A veneer that feels loose or has come off
- Sensitivity or discomfort in a tooth with a veneer
- Dark lines or staining along the edge of a veneer
These signs do not always mean a veneer has failed, but they are worth having examined. Anything that is persistent or getting worse should be checked rather than waiting for your next routine visit.
Talking about veneers in Palo Alto
Veneers can serve you well for many years when the teeth underneath are healthy and the veneers are planned and cared for carefully. At Palo Alto Oral Health, we can examine your teeth, check any existing veneers and talk through whether veneers or another option fits your goals. You can learn more about our veneer treatment, call (650) 321-9693 or request an appointment.
Sources
American Dental Association, MouthHealthy: Veneers
This article provides general education and does not replace an individual dental examination or diagnosis.
