Any time you ask how long something lasts, you have to take the answer with a grain of salt.

For example, if you ask how long marriage lasts and you’ll get much different answer if you’re asking a couple who is celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary vs., say, Larry King.

Ask how long a car lasts and a serious collector with beautifully maintained Packards, Model Ts or Studebakers will give you a much different answer than someone who never changes the oil and/or has a history of DUI accidents.

How Long Do Dental Veneers Last?

So, when you ask the question, how long do dental veneers last, understand that the answer involves averages. But your mileage may vary.

With that said, the popular answer is that veneers (which are thin shells that are put over teeth to hide chipped, worn or otherwise gnarly looking teeth) will last, on average, of between 10 to 20 years.

Some say even longer than 20 years, but you should not count on that. Just consider it a bonus if they do last that long.

Factors That Affect How Long Veneers Last

What factors determine how long veneers last?

Material

The material they’re made out of is a biggie.

Veneers are commonly made out of porcelain. This is a strong and durable material. However, all porcelain is not created equal.

When talking porcelain veneers the two main choices are generally felspathic and pressed veneers. Felspathic has been around longer, however, many feel pressed porcelain veneers are the clear choice. This is because they are more natural looking, are about twice as strong and last longer when compared to felspathic veneers.

Some veneers are made out of composite resins which offer some advantages over porcelain veneers. However, when it comes to durability, porcelain still has the advantage.

Skill Level of Your Dentist/Dental Ceramist

Besides the material, the skill level of your cosmetic dentist and the ceramist who make/place your veneers makes a difference. A good dentist/ceramist team will determine the best option for you taking all sorts of factors into account including how long the veneers will last.

How Well You Take Care of Your Veneers

Last but certainly not least, how long your veneers last is determined by YOU!

Want them to last a long time?

Then avoid foods like soda, red wine, coffee, etc. that stain.

Avoid grinding your teeth or other habits/activities (like playing hockey!) that put additional wear and tear on your teeth.

And take good care of your veneers and your mouth by regularly brushing, flossing and visiting your dentist.

Bottom Line

Bottom line here, expect you veneers to last about 10 years and maybe push things up to 20 or more years on the high end. But remember that the material, skill level of your dentist and your dental care habits can shorten or lengthen how long your veneers last.

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