Do Your Veneers, Dental Crowns or Fillings Need Replacing? Early Warning Signs & What to Do

Dental restorations like veneers, crowns and fillings are designed to protect your teeth and restore your smile, but they don’t last forever. Over time, everyday wear, bite pressure and natural changes in your teeth and gums can cause them to fail quietly, often without pain at first. Many patients are surprised to learn that a restoration placed years ago may now be doing more harm than good. 

In our latest blog we explain how long restorations typically last, the early warning signs that suggest they may need replacing, and what to do next. We’ll also walk you through how we assess and replace restorations at M Dental, so you know exactly what to expect.

What Are Veneers, Dental Crowns and Fillings (and Why They Don’t Last Forever)

Veneers, dental crowns and fillings are all used to repair or improve teeth, but they serve slightly different purposes.

Fillings: repair small to medium areas of decay or damage. They’re most commonly made from tooth-coloured composite material that bonds directly to the tooth.

Dental Crowns: act like a protective cap. They cover the entire tooth when it’s been weakened by decay, large fillings, cracks or root canal treatment.

Veneers: are thin shells, usually porcelain, bonded to the front surface of teeth to improve shape, colour or alignment.

While these restorations are strong and reliable, they’re still artificial materials attached to natural teeth. Over time, they can wear down, loosen, chip or allow bacteria to sneak underneath. Gum levels can also change, exposing edges that were once hidden.

Even if a restoration looks fine on the surface, problems can develop underneath, which is why regular checks matter.

Early Warning Signs Your Restoration May Need Replacing

Some signs are obvious whilst others are subtle. To help you notice these differences we’ve detailed some examples below to help you recognise the need for a check-up:

• You notice chips, cracks or rough edges on a veneer, dental crown or filling; 

• Dark lines around the edge of a filling or crown; 

• Discolouration that doesn’t polish away; 

• A visible gap between the restoration and the gum; 

• Sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet foods; 

• Pain when biting down or chewing; 

• A feeling that your bite has changed or feels uneven; 

• Gum rescission; 

• Decay developing underneath an old filling or crown

A key thing to remember is that pain isn’t always present. Many failing restorations only become painful once the underlying tooth is badly damaged. It is for this reason that it is important to have regular dental check-ups along with hygienist visits. Catching a problem early will save you from pain, costs and prevent further related problems. 

Who Replacement Treatment Is Suitable For

Replacement of veneers, dental crowns or fillings is suitable for a wide range of patients. Age doesn’t matter, it is more about your overall health. If you’ve had dental work 8-15 years ago it is a good idea to get it checked. 

If you experience any changes such as sensitivity, discomfort, tooth appearance, changes in your bite it’s a good idea to book a dental check-up. 

If you are unhappy with the appearance or ageing of your restorations or there has been a need for repeated fillings in the same tooth. These are all areas which could mean replacement is suitable.

If you’ve invested in your smile in the past, replacing a restoration isn’t a step backwards. In many cases, it’s an upgrade using better materials, improved techniques and more natural aesthetics than were available years ago.

Benefits of Replacing Old Veneers, Crowns or Fillings

Patients often put replacement off, expecting it to be complicated or uncomfortable. In reality, modern dentistry makes the process far easier than most expect.

Key benefits include:

• Improved comfort and bite balance

• Reduced sensitivity and pain

• Better protection for the underlying tooth

• More natural colour, shape and translucency

• Healthier gums around the restoration

• Predictable, long-lasting results

Many patients are surprised by how much better a replaced restoration feels, not just how it looks.

Our Step-by-Step Process at M Dental

We believe patients should understand exactly what’s happening and why. Here’s how we approach replacement treatment at M Dental.

1. Thorough assessment

We start with a detailed examination, including digital X-rays and photographs. This allows us to check the restoration itself and the health of the tooth underneath. It is also an opportunity for you to ask any questions and for us to gain an understanding of your needs. 

2. Clear explanation and options

We’ll talk you through what we’ve found, whether replacement is recommended now and the different material options available. 

3. Careful removal of the old restoration

The existing veneer, crown or filling is gently removed, preserving as much natural tooth as possible.

4. Tooth preparation and impressions

The tooth is cleaned and prepared, and precise digital or traditional impressions are taken to ensure a perfect fit.

5. Temporary protection

If needed, a temporary crown or veneer is fitted to protect the tooth and maintain appearance while your final restoration is made.

6. Final fitting and fine-tuning

Your new restoration is bonded in place, the bite is checked, and any small adjustments are made for comfort and longevity.

What Results Can You Expect at M Dental?

Most replacement treatments are completed within one to two visits, depending on the complexity. Your M Dental expert will be able to discuss timelines as your initial consultation. 

After treatment, patients typically notice:

• Immediate improvement in comfort

• Reduced or eliminated sensitivity

• A more natural look that blends seamlessly with surrounding teeth

Modern materials are stronger, more lifelike and kinder to gums than older alternatives. With good oral hygiene and regular check-ups, replacements can last many years.

Pricing and Finance Options

Costs vary depending on the type of restoration and material used, but as a general guide:

• Composite filling replacement: from £150–£250

• Porcelain veneer replacement: from £750–£1,200

• Crown replacement: from £850–£1,400

For an exact price, based on your needs, we provide this information during our consultation process. Finance options are also available, with information available here. 

A Real Patient Story

“I assumed my crown was fine because it didn’t hurt, but it looked a bit dark at the edge. M Dental found decay underneath that I had no idea about. The replacement was quick, comfortable and looks far better than the original. I’m so glad I didn’t leave it any longer.”

Janine, London 

When to Take the Next Step

If you’re unsure whether an old veneer, crown or filling is still doing its job, a simple check-up can give you clarity and peace of mind. Book your consultation today directly via our website and let us help you protect your teeth for the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do veneers, crowns and fillings last? Fillings often last 5–10 years, crowns 10–15 years, and veneers around 10–15 years, depending on care and bite forces.

Do all old restorations need replacing? No. If they’re well-sealed and the tooth underneath is healthy, they may last longer. Regular checks are key.

Is replacement painful? Most patients are pleasantly surprised. Local anaesthetic is used, and modern techniques keep discomfort minimal.

Can you replace just one veneer or crown? Yes. We carefully colour-match so it blends naturally with surrounding teeth.

What happens if I leave a failing restoration? Decay or cracks can worsen, potentially leading to root canal treatment or tooth loss.

Are newer materials better than older ones? In most cases, yes. Today’s materials are stronger, more aesthetic and more gum-friendly.

Will my bite feel different afterwards? Initially it may feel slightly different, but we carefully adjust your bite for comfort and balance.

Can I spread the cost? Yes. We offer interest-free finance to make treatment more manageable.