It is difficult to put a number of years for a lifespan for porcelain veneers. They won’t really wear out during a human lifespan. If they aren’t well cared for, the bonding material can ditch and deteriorate. Or they can be damaged and need to be replaced.
Let’s compare this question to two other questions. For example, how long do automobile tires last? Tire manufacturers can give you a pretty accurate idea. Every time you drive, some of the rubber wears off onto the road, and for a particular tire they will tell you how many miles it is expected to hold up before it is so thin that it becomes a safety hazard.
But now let’s ask, how long does an oak bookcase last? Well, an oak bookcase isn’t going to wear out. It can be damaged, however. If you move frequently and the movers aren’t careful, it can get dings and scratches. If your children race metal cars on one of the shelves or spill water on it, it can deteriorate quickly. If you overload it, a shelf can break. If you paint the room and don’t protect it, you can splatter paint on it. But if you just put it against the wall and display books and figurines on it, and don’t abuse it, there is no set lifespan.
Porcelain veneers, when they are done correctly, are like the bookcase. They don’t wear. And they are bonded tightly to your tooth, so, even though they are thin, they derive strength from your teeth. If you bite pins or other metal objects, you can chip an edge. If you consume alcohol heavily, you can dissolve away the bonding agent at the edges of the veneers. If another dental office uses power polishing equipment on them, the surface can become rough and porous and the porcelain will then stain very easily. They can also become scratched or chipped from improper maintenance techniques. If you snack frequently, you can get cavities on the edges (although these cavities can be repaired).
So, take good care of your porcelain veneers. Brush and floss daily. Have your regular dental checkups. Don’t abuse them, and they will last many years.
