How long do veneers last, and how do you look after them?
Cadbury Dental team4 min readPublished Last updated
Porcelain veneers typically last 10–15 years or more, composite bonding around 3–7 years. Lifespan depends far more on grinding, hygiene and bite than on the material itself. Veneers are replaced rather than removed, so the decision is a long-term one.
What makes veneers fail early
- Unmanaged grinding or clenching — the single biggest cause of chipping.
- Gum disease around the veneer margin.
- Biting nails, pens or packaging.
- Veneers placed over an unstable bite or untreated decay.
Protecting the investment
- 1A nightguard if you grind — non-negotiable in our view.
- 2Hygiene appointments at the interval we recommend for you.
- 3Regular reviews so small margin issues are caught early.
- 4Whitening natural teeth before veneers, then maintaining that shade.
Cosmetic & whitening: your questions on this topic
Can a chipped veneer be repaired?
Composite usually yes, chairside. Porcelain normally needs replacing.
Do veneers stain?
Porcelain resists staining well. Composite picks up stain over time and benefits from polishing.
Can you replace veneers done elsewhere?
In most cases, yes — we assess the underlying teeth and gums first.
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