How Long Do Composite Veneers Really Last?

Composite veneers are often praised for being minimally invasive and affordable, but how do they hold up over time — especially compared to porcelain? The short answer: they can last quite a while, but not quite as long as porcelain in most cases.

How Long Composite Veneers and Porcelain Veneers Last

Typical Lifespan: Composite vs Porcelain

In general practice:

Composite veneers tend to last around 3 to 5 years under good conditions
Porcelain veneers are typically expected to last 7 to 10 years or more

That said, there’s quite a bit of variation — we’ve seen composite veneers endure for over 10 years, and in rare cases, porcelain ones have had problems sooner.

Much of the difference comes down to material properties (porcelain is harder, more stain resistant) and how well the veneers are maintained.

What Affects Longevity?

Here are the key factors that can influence how long your veneers last — whether composite or porcelain:

Quality of the bonding and preparation
Your daily oral habits (chewing hard foods, nail biting, etc.)
Presence of grinding or clenching
Oral hygiene, gum health, and regular checkups
Dietary factors and stain exposure

With consistent care and routine maintenance, both types of veneers tend to last significantly longer than their average spans.

Protect Your Investment

To help your veneers — composite or porcelain — last as long as possible:

Maintain good brushing and flossing habits
Avoid biting hard objects or using your teeth as tools
Use a night guard if you grind or clench your teeth
Attend regular dental checkups so any minor wear or damage is caught early

Curious which veneer type would offer you the best balance of cost, durability, and aesthetics?

Book a consultation at Bayswater Dental Clinic today — we’ll evaluate your smile, explain your options, and help you choose the veneer solution that best meets your goals.