Let’s be honest, misaligned or yellowish teeth can keep you from smiling wholeheartedly. You are forced to suppress your laugh and feel uneasy throughout the day. Dental veneers can rescue you from this uncomfortable situation and ensure that you can enjoy a confident smile. But mostly individuals get stuck at composite veneers vs porcelain veneers.
The material of your veneer decides multiple factors, such as cost, longevity, durability, etc. Therefore, it is crucial to find the one that fits you well. This blog focuses on composite veneers vs porcelain veneers and how to determine which one will work for you.
What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are thin shells that mask your teeth to hide any flaw. These small, custom-made tooth appliances rest in front of your teeth as they cover issues like discolouration or cracks. These shells match your unique tooth colour and shape to bring out a natural-looking smile.
Dental cement is used to attach these shells to the front surface of the concerned tooth. The bonding process involves removal of tooth enamel. There are options like no-prep veneers for those preferring to proceed without the enamel removal.
There are different types of veneers for crooked teeth based on the material, such as porcelain and composite-resin. Before proceeding with composite veneers vs porcelain veneers, it is essential to get a brief idea about what they are and how they work.
Understanding Porcelain Veneers
Dental porcelain is a type of ceramic which is used to craft veneers. The veneers are created from an impression of your teeth to create an exact match. Porcelain veneer is stain resistant. Also, it has light-reflecting properties just like natural human teeth.
Porcelain veneers are more common among individuals opting for this treatment as it’s a strong material. If you prefer natural appearance, durability, stain-resistant, and biocompatible material for your veneers, you can opt for porcelain ones.
Understanding Composite Veneers
For the ones looking for a prompt solution, they can depend on composite veneers. These are made from composite-resin and require one appointment for the treatment process. Here, the material is directly applied to the front surface of the concerned tooth to cover its flaws. This is referred to as composite bonding.
This is a cost-effective treatment. However, the longevity is questionable due to its poor stain resistance. The process starts and ends at the dentist’s chair, prompting individuals with busy schedules to opt for it.
Composite Veneers Vs Porcelain Veneers
Dental veneers can save you from the embarrassment of misaligned or discoloured teeth. However, before opting for one, you must learn about the key differences between composite and porcelain veneers. Let’s explore.
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Composite Veneer |
Porcelain Veneer |
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1. Less durable than porcelain ones. |
1. Durable material. |
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2. Can last up to 7 years with proper care. |
2. With thorough maintenance and care, this can last for 20 years. |
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3. Directly applied to the teeth surface by composite bonding. |
3. Tooth impression is taken to create custom veneers or shells. |
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4. Becomes dull with time. Also, it is likely to stain. |
4. Stain resistant, and possesses natural light-reflecting properties. |
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5. Easy repair. |
5. If damaged, cannot be repaired, should be replaced. |
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6. Cost effective dental treatment option. |
6. Costs more than composite veneer. |
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7. Minimal enamel removal (or nothing at all) |
7. Preparation in the enamel required before bonding. |
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8. Made from composite-resin. |
8. Curated using medical-grade porcelain. |
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9. It takes a single visit to the dentist. |
9. Usually requires 2-3 dental office visits. Even more for complex cases. |
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10. Good for minor problems requiring prompt fixes. |
10. Preferred for long-term smile goals. |
Key Factors to Consider While Deciding On Composite Veneers Vs Porcelain Veneers
The primary concern is your goal. Whether you want to enhance your smile by fixing those gaps between your teeth, or you want to improve your oral functions by supporting the damaged teeth, choose material accordingly. To conclude the debate of composite veneers vs porcelain veneers, you must consider other factors as well.
Once you have zeroed down your objective, it is crucial to understand whether you have budget constraints or not. Composite veneers are cost-effective alternatives, but not durable. If you want longevity and don’t have any investment barriers, porcelain is the right choice.
In today’s fast-paced life, everything revolves around time. If you don’t have sufficient time to visit the dentist, composite-resin can be a saviour. It takes a single appointment for the treatment. However, if you do not intend to invest on veneers after every 5 years, go for porcelain ones.
Final Thoughts
Your unique smile goal is the base of every decision you make. Choose the material as per your specific preferences to avoid unnecessary expenses over the time. If you end up choosing the wrong one that does not align with your objectives, your hard-earned money may go down the drain. Therefore, choose wisely to smile fearlessly.
Are you interested in dental veneers? Innova Dental, one of the key dental practices in Australia, houses seasoned dentists who can help. Get in touch!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are composite veneers better than porcelain?
While choosing between composite veneers vs porcelain veneers, it is crucial to understand your smile goals. Composite ones work well if you want to support your oral aesthetics and flaunt an even smile without making a hole in your pocket. However, if you’re looking for a long-term solution, something that doesn't stain as easily and is more durable you should go with porcelain veneer.
2. What happens to composite veneers after 5 years?
Composite-resin is less translucent. Therefore, it may stain over time. It is likely that after 5 years, you have to replace your composite veneer. However, if you maintain it well, this timeline may extend to 7 years. For lasting results with your veneers, contact Innova Dental!
3. How to choose between composite vs porcelain veneers?
This depends on individual requirements and personal preferences. One must consider and evaluate factors like budget, longevity, stain-resistance, treatment time, etc. It will help to understand which material can deliver you results you have been looking for.