Good question
The question we always get about veneers is, “How long can I expect them to last?” Do more expensive porcelain veneers last longer than composites, and if so, are they worth the extra money? What about no-prep veneers like Lumineers or DURAthin veneers?
Firstly, to dispel FIVE myths about composite and porcelain veneers:
- The process can be pain-free (they are a non-invasive to a minimally invasive way to improve your smile)
- Composite veneers fall into two categories: indirect and direct composites. Direct composites use resin applied directly to the tooth, while indirect composites are made in a laboratory and then applied.
- Neither cause any irreversible problems and are classed as minimally invasive.
- No preparation veneers are precisely that; the tooth needs no preparation to attach the veneer.
- Porcelain veneers need some adhesive space on the teeth; hence, a very thin layer of tooth enamel is removed.
- Composite veneers are also referred to as immediate veneers or teeth bonding.
That said, both sets of veneers have very different durability lengths.
How Long Do Composite Veneers Last?
The harder and more durable the veneer’s material, the longer it will last. How the material is created and applied is also important. Veneers are more durable if custom-made in a dental laboratory instead of resin applied directly to the tooth.
- Composite veneers need removing or replacing between 3-10 years. (With 5 – 7 years being the most common time when composites have reached the end of their shelf life)
- Indirect composite veneers last approximately 20% longer than direct composite veneers.
- Porcelain veneers are more wear-resistant and made of a tougher material. They usually last over 10 years, although this has been reported as much longer in some cases.
By lasting longer, we mean that the veneer does not darken in colour, chip or fall off. Composite veneers are more prone to chipping, whereas porcelain chips less often and retain their brightness.
What extends their durability?
The material is only one aspect of the lifespan of the veneers. The other is dental care.
Other factors include
- The original condition and health of the teeth and gums.
- Level of dental care and attention. Poor dental hygiene will decrease the number of years a veneer lasts.
- Teeth care: Using your teeth to open bottles or playing contact sports without a mouth guard can cause chipping or cracking.
- Teeth grinding (again without a mouth guard) can cause the veneers to come loose. At Mint, we always identify this before placing veneers.
- Watch what you eat; hard foods like boiled sweets, nuts, and frozen treats can chip the veneer (or whole tooth).
Value for money and cost of a year’s wear and tear
OK, let’s look at the numbers (see prices for both veneers)
- Composite veneers cost £275.00 each
- Porcelain veneers cost £725.00
Cost per year
- Composite veneers cost £55 per year of wear (last 5 years)
- Porcelain veneers cost £72.50 per year of wear (last 10 years)
- Porcelain veneers cost £48.30 per year of wear (last 15 years)
In conclusion, porcelain veneers are better value for money as they last more than 10 years.
Affordable dental finance on all treatments over £995.00
