One of the first questions we get asked by patients looking to improve their smile with cosmetic dentistry is “how long do veneers last?”
Porcelain veneers are thin tooth-coloured ‘shells’ that fit over the front of a tooth to hide cracks, chips, and discolouration, creating teeth that appear whiter and straighter. They remain a significant but worthwhile investment for many people who are looking to restore a blemished smile.
If you are considering dental veneers, you’ll find that most dentists offer their patients two options – porcelain veneers or composite veneers. Both have their benefits as well as their drawbacks. So, in order to address the question how long do veneers last it’s worth taking a closer look at your options.
How do composite dental veneers differ from porcelain veneers?
Firstly, composite dental veneers are made from a resin mixture consisting of plastic and finely ground glass particles which are moulded directly on to your teeth, a layer at a time and can be completed in a single dental appointment.
Porcelain veneers, on the other hand, may need to be fabricated in a dental lab and then bonded to the front surface of the teeth. For this reason, treatment using conventional methods takes longer and often requires a minimum of 2 dental appointments spanning several weeks.
It’s worth noting that both composite and porcelain dental veneers are one of our most popular cosmetic dentistry services, but neither will last forever.
So, How long do veneers last?
Longevity depends on several factors.
Firstly the type of veneer you choose and secondly, how well you care for them. On average, porcelain veneers used in cosmetic dentistry tend to last for around 12 years.
Alternatively, composite resin veneers will need to be replaced within 4 to 8 years.
Why do dental veneers need to be replaced?
Cosmetic dentistry focuses mainly on aesthetics. And while porcelain veneers should last for over a decade, without maintaining good oral hygiene at home combined with regular dental check-ups, they may need replacing sooner.
Other reasons to replace them include:
- Chipping or breaking over time as they weaken with daily or improper use
- Tooth loss, decay or erosion can change a person’s bite which can cause a veneer to break
- Gums gradually pull away, revealing the margin between the veneer and the tooth root. There may also be a brown stain.
What about composite veneers – Why do they need replacing sooner?
Composite resin veneers are not as strong as porcelain veneers which means they can chip or crack more easily. Also, they stain easier which is another reason for their shorter lifespan (4-8 years).
Are veneers my best option?
Dental veneers are a great option for people with healthy teeth and gums looking to hide minor imperfections and achieve a confident beautiful smile. Popular reasons to get dental veneers include:
- Stained or discoloured teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Misshapen teeth
- Cracked or chipped teeth
- Visible fillings
If you are considering restoring your imperfect smile come and talk to the experienced team at Bondi Beach Dental. We offer composite resin veneers and exquisite same-day CEREC veneers which are completed at our dental practice in just one visit. Get in touch today at (02) 9365 6197 and take the first step to a beautiful smile you can be proud of.
With so much emphasis placed on having a brighter whiter smile, it’s no wonder that whitening teeth is one of the most popular cosmetic dental Read more
