Composite Veneers Vs Porcelain Veneers: What’s The Difference
If you are considering getting veneers, it is important to find the right ones that work for you and your oral condition, whether it be bite problems or discolouration.
Very effective when it comes to correcting crooked or gappy smiles, the two different types of veneers both have strong advantages and can create a beautiful new smile for you.
But first, what are the differences between the two and which will be the right fit?
The regular veneer application is permanent, so it’s essential to meet with one of our professional cosmetic dentists to determine which procedure is right for you.
Composite veneers
New and innovative materials have emerged to improve the veneer procedure and provide patients with more options for preparing their existing teeth.
Composite veneers provide a life-like and very natural appearance that is actually NON-destructive to the tooth structure.
The composite material is durable and known to last a long time (5-7 years). However, as it is not as strong as porcelain, this type of veneer will not last as long.
Composite veneers use a tooth-coloured resin that matches your natural tooth shade.
When directly applied to the tooth, it is sculpted in layers. This will help you achieve the exact shape and appearance of your new smile.
Often used in minor corrections where tooth chipping and discolouration are present, they can also be used to correct the misalignment of teeth to give a whiter and straighter appearance.
Porcelain veneers
Porcelain veneers are a lot like false fingernails – they are applied directly to the tooth’s front surface and are not to be confused with crowns that cover the entire tooth.
The super-thin shells are custom-made to fit directly over your existing teeth, giving them the most natural-looking finish possible.
The translucent properties of the porcelain allow the veneers to mimic light, which gives it the characteristics of natural enamel and provides the tooth with a sense of depth.
They are provenly very strong and can last a lifetime once applied.
Discover more. Or see Ultrathin, Durathin</a and Lumineerveneers that require no shaving or drilling.
Composite vs porcelain: A comparison guide
- Porcelain veneers are highly resistant to staining, however, do proceed with caution as the cement is not and either is the underlying tooth. However, the veneers do provide strong protection from everyday amenities like tea, coffee and red wine. Composite veneers in comparison can slightly discolour over time, but even with this modern material, it will only be minimal.
- Unfortunately, porcelain veneers cannot be fixed or repaired. Once broken or chipped, they will need to be replaced, which is why it is important to take special care of them. Composite veneers can be restored in one visit by a professional and experienced cosmetic dentist.
- Porcelain veneers are considered to be among the longest-lasting due to their very strong properties. This means that they tend to last anywhere from 15 years to a lifetime if good care is taken and regular hygiene care is continued. Composite veneers, in comparison, do not last as long and will need to be refreshed or replaced more often—this is because the resin material is not as durable as porcelain.
- Porcelain veneers are custom-made by an expert ceramist in a dental laboratory, which can either be on-site or in a different location. This means that the process takes slightly longer, with two appointments required to fit and place them. Composite veneers, known as immediate veneers, can be placed in one visit and are crafted in the dentist’s chair.
- The application process differs slightly also. Porcelain veneers require slight removal of the tooth’s front surface so the veneer can be attached securely and safely. This process is irreversible but does not damage the tooth’s structure compared to crowns. Composite veneers, in this case, leave the underlying tooth intact as they do not damage the tooth.
See: Leading cosmetic dentist explains why you should not be scared to get veneers
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