How Long Do Composite Veneers Last?

October 14, 2022
2:36 pm

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.

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   Maria Than 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I chose Mint Dental Clinic after searching for various dental clinics offering sedation and I had an incredible experience thanks to the entire team!! I am terrified of the dentist with a phobia of needles, and I avoid going for check-ups to the point where I developed a huge amount of cavities. After my teeth were analysed by Dr Patel's team, they identified that some of them needed urgent fillings. As sedation is expensive, the team was helpful and patient in helping me figure out the right financial plan to tackle everything before my teeth worsened, including adding extra teeth cleaning for free! I had IV sedation twice for two rounds of fillings across a month, and each time I was put at ease despite coming in the clinic with intense anxiety. I cried as I sat in the chair with the IV in my arm due to my fear of needles. They were kind and patient, and the nurses / sedationists helped calm down my breathing despite the panic. I was terrified of being 'awake' but not being able to communicate or breathe. The team was very reassuring in those fears and I had a lovely experience where I remained conscious but with amnesia, so I had 0 trauma afterwards since you have no memory of anything! The team made me feel heard and supported without being judged. They made sure my chaperone knew everything before bringing me home, and all of my teeth are healthy without any complications post-appointment. I am now ready for routine work without the intense fear of dentistry and feel much more ready to start any dental work WITHOUT sedation in the very near future!
  
 
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   Adeoye Omowumi 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’m always impressed with the level of care at Mint Dental Clinic. They focus not just on treatment but also on prevention, helping you avoid future dental issues. The dentist is fantastic, and front of house is friendly, welcoming approach adds to the great experience.
  
 
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   Gloria Freifeld 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mint Dental Clinic consistently delivers professional, high-quality care. Dr. Patel is exceptional—thorough, gentle, and genuinely attentive. Elizabeth at the front desk always welcomes you with a warm smile, making every visit feel comfortable from the moment you walk in.
  
 
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   Halil Esen 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’ve had an outstanding experience at this clinic. Dr. Raj Patel delivers exceptional quality work and somehow makes every treatment feel completely painless. It’s amazing having all types of dental care under one roof, and the whole team really focuses on prevention rather than quick fixes. After completing my treatment, I now have a healthy, confident smile that still looks natural. The hygienists are fantastic, and every member of the team is warm, professional, and genuinely invested in your wellbeing. If you’re looking for shortcuts, this isn’t the place for you—but if you want thorough, honest, high-quality dentistry, I can’t recommend this clinic enough.
  
 
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   Tahsin Chowdhury 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’ve had an excellent experience at this dental practice. My hygienist Peter is absolutely brilliant, thorough and incredibly skilled at what he does. He always takes the time to explain everything clearly and makes each visit comfortable. A big shout-out as well to Arman at reception. He’s always friendly, helpful, and efficient, making the whole process from booking to check-in smooth and stress-free. Overall, a fantastic team and a dentist I truly trust. Highly recommend!
  
 
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 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I inquired about Invisalign's earlier this year at this clinic, as I was quite self conscious of my teeth. I had a very insightful conversation with Arman who gave me a thorough explanation regarding the process, treatment, what to expect results wise, and the cost. This then led me to begin my Invisalign journey, and from start to finish it has truly been seamless, immensely effective, and so beneficial. Dr Sharma did an exceptional job throughout, and helped in understanding the developments to expect, how it occurs, and overall making my experience extremely easy and efficient. The service was immaculate from the receptionists, Dr Sharma and his assistant dentist. Also as of recent, I’ve been getting hygiene checkups by Danica and I must say she has been amazing. She explained the anatomy of my teeth and gums in detail, and made me understand much more about dental hygiene and its cruciality. Overall I have no complaints whatsoever, and will 100% refer this clinic to friends and family, as they produce and prioritise high-quality work and service. Extra shout out to Arman as he’s been extremely helpful, and looked after me very well.
  
 
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   Yassim Jama 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I highly recommend this dentist. Dr Patel is an exceptional professional, and my family and I have been attending for many years. Since we moved to the Clinic, even my son, who never liked going to the dentist, now looks forward to his visits. The dental hygienist is also excellent. The reception team provide consistently high service, always polite, welcoming and professional.