Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells bonded to the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance, concealing issues like discoloration, chips, or gaps. While they offer a long-lasting aesthetic solution, veneers are not permanent restorations and will eventually require replacement.
Expected Lifespan and Material Differences
The longevity of a veneer is primarily determined by the material from which it is fabricated. Porcelain veneers generally offer the longest service life, typically lasting between 10 and 15 years, with some lasting up to 20 years with meticulous care. This extended lifespan is due to the material’s strength, durability, and superior resistance to staining and wear.
Composite resin veneers, on the other hand, are constructed from a material that is less robust and more susceptible to wear and staining over time. The expected lifespan for composite veneers is shorter, usually falling in the range of 5 to 7 years. Although they are more affordable and easier to repair, the need for more frequent replacement means the long-term cost difference compared to porcelain may be smaller than the initial investment suggests.
Indicators That Replacement Is Necessary
Regardless of the material’s expected lifespan, several functional and aesthetic failures signal that a veneer needs to be replaced. Physical damage, such as a visible chip, crack, or fracture in the veneer material, compromises its structural integrity and can expose the underlying natural tooth. A common issue is the failure of the bond, which can manifest as the veneer feeling loose or causing sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.
Gum recession is another indicator, as it exposes the margin where the veneer meets the natural tooth, creating an aesthetic mismatch and a potential site for decay. Severe discoloration or staining that cannot be removed through professional cleaning, particularly if the bonding cement has darkened, means the veneer has reached the end of its aesthetic usefulness and requires replacement.
Maximizing Veneer Longevity Through Proper Care
The most effective way to prolong the life of a veneer is by maintaining impeccable oral hygiene and avoiding damaging habits. Brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive toothpaste is important to prevent scratching the veneer surface. Daily flossing removes plaque that accumulates at the veneer’s edges, preventing gum disease and decay on the underlying tooth structure.
Patients should be mindful of their habits, recognizing that teeth are not tools meant for opening packages or biting fingernails. Avoiding hard or sticky foods, such as ice, hard candies, or bone-in meats, reduces the risk of chipping or cracking the veneer. For individuals who clench or grind their teeth (bruxism), a custom-fitted night guard is recommended. The protective device absorbs the excessive force generated during sleep, which significantly reduces stress on the veneers and prevents premature failure.
While porcelain is stain-resistant, the consumption of highly pigmented foods and drinks like red wine, coffee, and tea should be limited. Rinsing the mouth with water after consuming acidic or staining items can help minimize their contact time with the dental work. Regular check-ups allow a dentist to monitor the health of the gums and the integrity of the veneer bonds, enabling early intervention if an issue begins to develop.
The Replacement Procedure and Cost Considerations
Replacing a failed veneer involves a procedure similar to the initial placement, beginning with the careful removal of the old restoration. A dentist will gently remove the material to avoid damaging the prepared tooth structure underneath. Once the old veneer is removed, the tooth may be lightly re-prepared, and a new impression is taken to ensure the replacement fits precisely.
For porcelain veneers, the impression is sent to a dental laboratory for custom fabrication, a process that typically takes a couple of weeks, during which a temporary veneer may be placed. The new veneer is then bonded securely to the tooth using specialized dental cement and a curing light.
The financial outlay for a single porcelain veneer typically ranges from $900 to $2,500, though premium options can be higher, with composite veneers usually costing less. Factors influencing the final price include the type of material, the number of veneers being replaced, the complexity of the case, and the geographic location of the practice. Because veneers are primarily considered an elective cosmetic procedure, dental insurance rarely covers the cost, meaning patients should be prepared to cover the expense out-of-pocket or explore third-party financing options.