Veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin that are bonded to the front of teeth to improve their appearance. They are an excellent way to fix chips, gaps, stains, or uneven shapes and sizes. While veneers generally last many years, they may need replacing at some point. So how many times can you get veneers redone?
Can you redo veneers?
Yes, it is possible to redo veneers. Veneers usually last 5-10 years before needing replacement, though some may last 10-15 years or longer with proper care. The veneers themselves do not wear out, but the bond between the veneer and tooth can weaken over time, leading to damage or detachment. When this happens, the veneer can be re-prepared and replaced on the existing tooth.
How many times can you replace veneers?
There is no set limit on how many times you can replace veneers. As long as you have enough enamel on your natural teeth, you can continue getting veneers redone as needed. Some patients have had the same teeth veneered 3, 4, or even 5 times over their lifetime.
However, each time veneers are replaced, a little more enamel must be removed from the teeth to allow space for the new veneers. This may eventually limit how many times veneers can be redone. Your dentist will let you know if your teeth cannot support further veneer treatment.
Factors that affect veneer longevity
How long veneers last and how many times they can be redone depends on several factors:
- Your oral hygiene – Good dental hygiene practices like brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings help veneers last longer.
- Your diet and lifestyle habits – Habits like teeth grinding, nail biting, and consuming stains foods or drinks can damage veneers.
- Your occlusion – Teeth that do not meet properly when biting can put more stress on veneers.
- Veneer material – Composite veneers typically do not last as long as porcelain.
- Veneer thickness – Thinner veneers are more prone to fracture than thicker ones.
- The skill of your cosmetic dentist – A highly experienced dentist will ensure better bonding and longevity.
Steps for redoing veneers
The process of redoing veneers is similar to the initial placement:
- The existing veneers are removed. Your dentist will use a tool to gently pry off each veneer.
- Your dentist may need to reshape the teeth by removing a small additional amount of enamel to allow space for the new veneer.
- Impressions are taken and temporary veneers placed on the prepared teeth.
- The new custom veneers are fabricated in a dental lab.
- At a follow-up appointment, the temporary veneers are removed and new veneers bonded onto your teeth.
The process of redoing veneers takes 2-3 visits to the dentist and may take 2-4 weeks for completion of the new veneers by a lab. Proper care should allow them to last another 5-15 years.
Cost of redoing veneers
The cost of replacing veneers is similar to the initial fee, ranging from $900 – $2500 per veneer. The total cost depends on how many veneers you get redone. Some factors affecting the cost include:
- Dentist fees
- Lab fees for veneer fabrication
- Type of material – porcelain or composite
- Number of veneers being replaced
- Where you live
While redoing veneers represents an added expense, it is typically less costly than getting first-time veneers made. Insurance usually does not cover any part of the cost.
Pros and cons of redoing veneers
Here are some advantages and disadvantages of replacing existing veneers:
Pros
- Restore the appearance of worn or damaged veneers
- Able to change color or shape if desired
- Less tooth reduction needed than initial veneers
- Shorter process than getting veneers for the first time
- Can fix any functional problems of old veneers
- Cost is usually lower than initial placement
Cons
- Tooth enamel is reduced further each time
- Risk of tooth sensitivity or nerve damage accumulates
- Color match to existing teeth may be difficult
- Costly out-of-pocket expense every 5-15 years
- Temporaries needed during the process
Frequently asked questions
Why do veneers need replacing?
Veneers may need replacing due to:
- Bond failure causing chips, cracks, gaps, or complete loss of the veneer
- Accumulated stains at veneer edges over time
- Damage from trauma or accident
- Excessive grinding or clenching
- Desire to change the shape, size, or color
- Natural aging over 5-15 years
Can I get composite veneers replaced with porcelain?
Yes, you can switch from composite resin veneers to porcelain ones when redoing your smile. Porcelain generally has better stain resistance, durability, and aesthetics than composite.
Do replacement veneers last as long as the initial ones?
With proper oral care and regular dental visits, replacement veneers should last just as long as your initial set, or 5-15 years. The lifespan depends on your habits and how susceptible your teeth are to damage.
Can I put new veneers on different teeth?
When redoing veneers, you can choose to get them placed on different teeth than your original set if desired. Your dentist will advise you on which teeth are best suited for veneers.
Should I redo my 20 year old veneers?
If your 20 year old veneers still appear in good condition with no damage, you may not need to replace them yet unless you want to change their appearance. See your dentist regularly to monitor their condition and determine when replacement is needed.
Conclusion
While veneers are not meant to last forever, they can often be redone multiple times during your lifetime. There is no set limit on how many times you can replace veneers. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental care, replacement veneers can last just as long as your initial set. Work with your cosmetic dentist to maximize longevity so you can enjoy your smile for decades to come.