With the right care, veneers have the potential to last a lifetime. Even if your sheet metal is worn out or damaged, it can be replaced. The lifespan of a veneer typically ranges from 5 to 10 years, depending on the type of veneer and other lifestyle factors. At The Dental Boutique, our qualified cosmetic dentists can provide you with veneers that are designed to last for a long time.
Although not indestructible, veneers are considered permanent and can last up to 30 years with proper care. A study of 318 porcelain veneers (84 individual patients) that had been placed over a 22-year period showed that ultra-thin veneers placed using a no-drill protocol had the highest success rate. It's important to visit your dentist regularly to ensure that your veneers are in good condition. Your dentist can detect any signs of decay or partial detachment of the veneer during an exam.
If the adhesive material used to attach the veneer starts to darken, it's time for a checkup. You may also want to ask if you can see a digital image of what your smile with veneers would look like. The attachment of a veneer to your underlying tooth can be surprisingly strong, especially if the surface is enamel. Veneers are thin peels that are applied to the front of the teeth, making them look even and undamaged.
In most cases, once veneered, a tooth will always need another veneer or dental crown to look and feel like a normal tooth. Highly pigmented foods and beverages can stain your veneers if consumed in excess. The expected lifespan of veneers compares favorably with the reported survival rate of dental crowns placed in locations where their aesthetic appearance is important (i.e., front teeth). Since most veneers are made of porcelain, which is glass, they are susceptible to breakage under excessive pressure.
With general caution, veneers can last up to 30 years, although most will begin to show signs of damage after 20 years. A study of 304 porcelain veneers (100 individual patients) that had been placed by the same dentist over 16 years showed that they had a high success rate.
