Is there way to fix eroding composite veneers?

Question

As a teenager I got composite veneers put on my front two teeth. The dentist didn't inform me or my mother about any of the negative aspects. In my 20s now, they are yellow and are eroding/breaking away on the sides. I don't have the money to replace them, and I've read that the replacement process destroys the natural teeth and the veneers have to be continuously replaced every few years. Is there no way to remove or grind away the composite veneers so that I can have my regular teeth again?

Doug Jopling, DDS · Answer

Composite resin will chip and discolor and has the shortest lifespan of dental materials. Since you do not have the finances to replace these now or do minimal prep veneers, you may try to find a dentist who may paint on and cure a layer of composite resin veneer cement onto the surface to see if that may give a lighter color to your composite veneers.  This could be a way to make you happier with the appearance, but it will wear off. You may want to start setting aside funds for thin, minimal prep veneers so you can do them in the future.

Michael Fulbright, DDS · Answer

I am sorry that you are having to deal with damaged resin veneers. Resin is not as strong as porcelain veneers and will chip and crack over time.
If you had a large amount of enamel removed to make way for the resin veneers, than you will most probably have to deal with sensitive or unsightly teeth. Most often patients will not require as much enamel removal for resin veneers. Unfortunately, only a dental professional will be able to give you the best advice on resin veneer removal. Good luck!

Supriya Verma, DMD, FAGD · Answer

Thank you for posting your question.  The old composite can be removed from you tooth.  However, depending on how the tooth was prepared or amount of tooth reduction done prior to placing the composite, it will affect what you will find underneath the old composite.  If there was a lot tooth reduction then just removing the old composite will leave your teeth exposed and possibly sensitive.  If there was minimal preparation then it may be possible to remove the old composite without replacing it. A dentist would have to see it clinically and take x-rays to know what your situation is.  Hope this helps.  Good Luck!

Andrea Ho-Fatt Wang, DDS · Answer

Usually composite veneers are placed on teeth without removing tooth structure and just bonded to the tooth enamel.  If this was the case - yes you can have the old composite resin removed without damaging your natural tooth structure.  Good luck.

Nirav Patel, MDS, PhD · Answer

no, that is not advisable, to remove composite from tooth surface without reveneering, u have to go for re-veneering. staining is common issue with composite veneers. porcelain veneer is good option. if u want to save money, in that dental tourism is best option, u will save upto 70% on your total treatment costing.

Is there way to fix eroding composite veneers?

Answers (7)

Answer: Composite Veneers

Answer: Composite Veneers

Answer: Veneer - after care

Answer: Veneer - after care

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Porcelain Veneers

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Is there way to fix eroding composite veneers?

Answers (7)

Answer: Composite Veneers

Answer: Composite Veneers

Answer: Veneer - after care

Answer: Veneer - after care

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Porcelain Veneers

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.