If you’re dissatisfied with your smile, veneers can transform your life. With a perfect set of teeth, you’ll possess the confidence to speak, smile and laugh freely. This subtle aesthetic change can make all the difference in how people see you and how you feel about yourself. But where to begin? There are two types of veneers from which to choose: composite and porcelain. These options each have their own benefits, but the veneers you choose will depend upon your specific wants and needs.
What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are a popular cosmetic dentistry option for those who want an aesthetically flawless smile. They are essentially thin, custom-made shells that cover the front surface of teeth, altering their shape, size, colour, or alignment. Veneers can hide a variety of flaws, including chips, breakages, and overly large gaps between teeth. There are two types of dental veneers: composite resin veneers and porcelain veneers. Each type has its own unique properties and benefits for the wearer.
Composite Resin
Composite resin veneers are made from a light-cured resin material. They can be applied directly to the tooth or constructed in a laboratory setting and affixed to the teeth later. When it comes to composite veneer composition, your dentist will decide which type is most appropriate for you. The choice will depend on factors such as the severity of your staining or damage, the number of teeth you want fixed, and the strength of your natural teeth. All of these variables will determine which type of composite veneers you will receive.
Pros
Composite resin veneers are more affordable than porcelain alternatives, making them a cost-effective option for individuals on a budget. They can also be placed in a single dental visit, eliminating the need for multiple appointments. This process is generally quicker and more convenient than other alternatives. Composite resin veneers are furthermore perfect for beginners, as they are not a permanent solution to the problem. If you’re new to having veneers and feel a bit unsure, this option is ideal because the results are quite easily reversible.
Cons
Since composite resin veneers are impermanent, they also have a shorter lifespan than porcelain varieties. This means that you will have to replace them every 5–8 years, depending on how well you care for them. Composite resin veneers are also made of a poorer-quality material that is more prone to staining. It’s worth noting that they may not be a perfect aesthetic match to your teeth and will not look as natural as porcelain veneers.
Porcelain
Porcelain veneers are built from a high-grade dental ceramic that is designed to be hard, stain-resistant, and biocompatible, all while retaining a natural appearance that mimics the look of real teeth. These veneers are manufactured before being fitted to an individual’s mouth on a separate occasion. This process involves taking a 3D scan of the patient’s mouth so that the veneers fit perfectly.
Pros
Compared to composite resin veneers, porcelain varieties are more durable and have a longer lifespan of about 10–15 years. This is because porcelain is a better-quality material. Porcelain veneers bear a closer resemblance to real teeth and are also stain-resistant. Furthermore, a porcelain veneer fitting calls for minimal recovery time, meaning you’re basically good to go as soon as they’re on.
Cons
While porcelain is a high-quality material, this also means that it will be the more expensive option. Getting porcelain veneers also means signing up for a lifelong commitment and undergoing irreversible alterations to the teeth. Porcelain can also be prone to chipping.
Make the Decision That’s Best for You
When it comes to choosing veneers, there is no right answer. Generally, porcelain veneers are the recommended and preferred option as they produce overall better results. However, if you are unwilling to commit to long-lasting veneers, starting with composite resin might make the most sense for you. If you like these veneers, you can then upgrade to a more effective and naturalistic option with porcelain replacements. Speaking to your dentist can also give you a better idea of what solution will work best for you.
