Composite vs. Porcelain Veneers

Just like any other service and product in the 21 st century, Cosmetic Dentistry and a composite or porcelain dental veneer has several options. First off, what exactly is a dental veneer? They are a fast and effective solution for anyone who has a cosmetic dental issue that they wish to correct. You can think of veneers like a fake nail for a tooth instead of a fingernail. They can be used to cover a variety of dental problems involving teeth visible in your smile, including spaces between teeth, crooked teeth, broken or chipped teeth or permanently stained teeth. Placement of dental veneers can dramatically improve your smile and appearance.

Several options
There are several different types of veneers available, but by far the two most popular are porcelain veneers and composite veneers. Both can be used to greatly change and transform your smile. They both have some pros and cons which can help determine the best choice for your situation.

Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are considerably more expensive than composite veneers, and you might pay almost twice as much per tooth if you choose porcelain. You are also paying for these benefits. Porcelain veneers are very durable. Porcelain veneers can last for many years, usually 10-15 years, if you take good care of them using good oral hygiene and don’t chew hard objects. Porcelain veneers resist staining. Only a small amount of your tooth structure is removed, if any during the procedure. Porcelain has a translucent quality that is quite similar to tooth enamel.  The end result creates a very life-like and natural tooth appearance and it is also considered a conservative approach.

Composite Veneers
Composite resin veneers are accomplished in one visit and are made with you sitting in the chair. They are not sent off to a lab as in porcelain. The tooth-shaded resin is applied to teeth directly (hence the name) where it can be shaped and literally sculpted by the dentist. An adequate amount of tooth structure is removed to allow for placement of composite resin in the desired shape without added tooth bulk. A Bonding agent is then applied. Composite resin is then added, light cured, then finished and polished. The composite procedure therefore tends to be much less invasive and noticeably quicker than porcelain. The biggest advantage that composite veneers have over porcelain is reversibility. The composite can be removed and replaced as needed.

Which route is best for you?
If you’re looking for the most cost-effective solution, then a composite veneers treatment plan will probably be your best bet. However, if you have a severe aesthetic concern, or you’re looking for the most natural and durable treatment solution (and cost is not a consideration), then porcelain veneers will give you a fantastic result. At the end of the day, the only way to determine whether a composite or porcelain veneer solution is best for you is to consult with your dentist about your goals and objectives in achieving that perfect smile.

Interested in learning more about Porcelain Veneers and how Iowa Dental Group can help? Contact us today and setup your consultation.