An up to 16-year prospective study of 304 porcelain veneers

This study aimed to prospectively analyze the outcomes of 304 feldspathic porcelain veneers prepared by the same operator, in 100 patients, that were in situ for up to 16 years.

A total of 304 porcelain veneers on incisors, canines, and premolars in 100 patients completed by one prosthodontist between 1988 and 2003 were sequentially included. Preparations were designed with chamfer margins, incisal reduction, and palatal overlap. At least 80% of each preparation was in enamel. Feldspathic porcelain veneers from refractory dies were etched (hydrofluoric acid), silanated, and cemented (Vision 2, Mirage Dental Systems). Outcomes were expressed as percentages (success, survival, unknown, dead, repair, failure). The results were statistically analyzed using the chi-square test and Kaplan-Meier survival estimation. Statistical significance was set at P < .05.

The cumulative survival for veneers was 96% +/- 1% at 5 to 6 years, 93% +/- 2% at 10 to 11 years, 91% +/- 3% at 12 to 13 years, and 73% +/- 16% at 15 to 16 years. The marked drop in survival between 13 and 16 years was the result of the death of 1 patient and the low number of veneers in that period. The cumulative survival was greater when different statistical methods were employed. Sixteen veneers in 14 patients failed. Failed veneers were associated with esthetics (31%), mechanical complications (31%), periodontal support (12.5%), loss of retention >2 (12.5%), caries (6%), and tooth fracture (6%). Statistically significantly fewer veneers survived as the time in situ increased.

Feldspathic porcelain veneers, when bonded to enamel substrate, offer a predictable long-term restoration with a low failure rate. The statistical methods used to calculate the cumulative survival can markedly affect the apparent outcome and thus should be clearly defined in outcome studies.