If placed by a competent and experienced cosmetic dentist, veneers can last many years. They may even last a lifetime. However, for various reasons, some of which will be covered here, some patients are unable to fully benefit from their newly veneered teeth. This often means that the veneers need to be replaced every few years.

In some cases, where a patient is more fortunate, their veneers may be 20 years old. It is at these times that some patients may consider replacing their veneers with dental crowns.

The question on your lips then, is this; is it wise to replace dental veneers with dental crowns? It all depends on your particular situation.

Are Your Veneers Breaking Due to Malocclusion?

Veneers do sometimes break due to poor craftsmanship or poor placement; however, it is more likely that your veneers are breaking due to an issue with your teeth, not the veneers. If your bite is even slightly off, in other words your teeth are not in proper alignment, then this will put excessive pressure on your veneers.

The cause then, may not be your veneers but your bite. You may benefit from seeking orthodontic treatment to balance your bite. Otherwise, replacing your veneers with dental crowns, which are sturdier and can take more pressure, is advisable.

Do You Suffer from Bruxism?

Nocturnal grinding, due to malocclusion, will drastically shorten the lifespan of veneers. Bruxism, in many cases, can be treated by balancing your bite with orthodontics (braces).

However, if you are unwilling to wear braces, then dental crowns will offer more durability than veneers.

Have Much of Your Teeth are You Prepared to Sacrifice?

Bear in mind that in order for dental crowns to be placed, regardless of the material used, a substantial amount of a tooth needs to be removed to make room for the crown. Once gone, tooth structure does not return. Are you willing to sacrifice most of your tooth and possibly require a root canal in order to switch to dental crowns?

Do You Bite Your Nails or Chew Ice?

If you have an uncontrollable habit of biting your nails or chewing on ice or other items, dental crowns will hold up much better than veneers in the long run.

There are many things to consider before switching from veneers to dental crowns. Your diet plays a part too, for example. Ensure that you are completely sure before taking such a drastic course of action. Sometimes, 6 months in braces could help your veneers last decades as opposed to years. 

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