Depending on the type of dental veneers you and your dentist decide are the best for you, they will have a different life span than others. More specifically, composite veneers and porcelain veneers both have their benefits; however, it is important to consider how long each of the options lasts so you can make the best choice.
Assuming you take the best care of your veneers, porcelain laminate veneers last anywhere between 10 to 12 years. In comparison, composite resin veneers tend to be replaced sooner as they typically only last for about 4 to 8 years.
The Differences Between Composite and Porcelain Veneers
Composite veneers are made up of a synthetic mix of glass and resin (plastic) and are applied to the tooth one layer at a time. On the other hand, porcelain laminate veneers are porcelain “shells” that your dentist bonds to the front of your teeth.
Pros of Composite Veneers
- Less expensive than porcelain veneers
- Any cracks or chips can be repaired
- Your dentist will remove less enamel from your natural teeth
Cons of Composite Veneers
- Less durable than porcelain veneers
- Stains are more common
- Do not last as long as porcelain veneers
- Do not look as natural and are often bulkier
Pros of Porcelain Veneers
- Better at resisting stains
- More durable
- Look extremely natural
- Have a longer life span
Cons of Porcelain Veneers
- Damaged veneers must be replaced because they cannot be repaired
- The procedure takes about three days to complete
When to Replace Your Veneers
It is important to note that most patients will need to replace their veneers at some point in their lifetime. Most veneers last up to 12 years, so it is important to see your dentist when the time comes. Because a tiny amount of enamel was removed when your older veneers were installed, your natural teeth may not have enough enamel to sustain a new veneer, and a crown may need to be considered. Overall, your dentist will have the best insight into how you should replace your veneers.
Reasons You Need to Replace Your Veneers
- You may notice stains or a fine brown line where your gums have slowly been pulled back and exposed the space between the root of your tooth and the veneer.
- As the porcelain or composite material weakens over time, you may notice that your veneers have been chipped or broken.
- Any tooth loss, erosion, or decay may cause your veneers to break.
Are Veneers My Best Option?
If you have any minor dental imperfections and want to smile with more confidence, then dental veneers might be the best option for you. The most common reason for people to get veneers is to improve the cosmetic appearance of their teeth, and veneers look and feel like natural teeth. Dental veneers are also the best option for those who generally have healthy teeth and gums.
The most common reasons to get veneers:
- Chipped, broken, or cracked teeth
- Stained or discolored teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Obvious or fake-looking fillings
- Eroded, crooked, oddly shaped teeth
- Teeth that are uneven or too small
- Minor crowding in the mouth
It is important to note that dental veneers are not always suitable for everyone. More specifically, those with active gum disease or extremely damaged teeth will not always be candidates for this treatment. So, you and your dentist should discuss all the possible alternatives to achieve the best smile possible.
If you would like to learn more about porcelain or composite veneers, give North County Dental Care a call today at 760.940.4266!
North County Dental Care brings together a host of dental specialists to provide a full spectrum of dental care for you and your family, all in one convenient location. Our family dentistry office in Vista, California, does not require referrals or running from one specialist’s office to another to receive the care you need. Best of all, we treat patients of all ages so that you can schedule your entire family’s dental appointments all in one place.
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