Comparing The Two Veneer Options - Porcelain Veneers & Composite Veneers

Dental veneers can provide complete smile makeovers and cosmetic corrections to teeth, but each type has its benefits and downsides that need consideration before making a decision.

Veneers are an excellent option for those with chipped or stained teeth. They can also correct small misalignments and gaps, giving you the smile of your dreams!

There are two types of dental veneers available. Porcelain and composite are the most popular ones, having their benefits, so which one should you choose? Similarities between the two, along with differences, will be outlined in this guide to help ease your decision-making process!

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are made from a thin layer of porcelain bonded to your teeth’ front surface. They can be used to correct several cosmetic dental issues, including:

Teeth that are stained or discoloured
Teeth that are chipped or broken
Teeth that are misshapen or irregularly shaped
Gaps between teeth

Composite Veneers

Composite veneers are dental veneer types made of resin and ceramic. They are used to improve the appearance of teeth that are chipped, cracked, stained, or crooked.

Composite veneers are placed on the existing teeth and bonded with a special dental adhesive. They can be used to correct a wide variety of dental problems and can last for up to 10 years.

What Are the Differences Between Porcelain and Composite Veneers?

Porcelain and composite veneers both solve the same purpose. However, they vary in material and characteristics and have their pros and cons. The differences between these veneers are as follows:

1. Durability

Composite veneers and Porcelain veneers differ in longevity. Composite veneers have become more durable today as they can last anywhere from 5 to 7 years. Porcelain shell is stronger and can last up to 15 years. Though composite is a strong material, it is not as robust as porcelain. This makes it more susceptible to wear-and-tear, damage, and staining and thus may require frequent replacement. However, it is possible to extend the life of your composite veneers with reasonable care.

2. Price

Porcelain veneers are a much more expensive alternative to composite ones because they contain porcelain in their composition. In addition, the application process takes time and requires expertise which adds to its cost.

While it’s true that porcelain veneers are more expensive, they will last for years without any problems. However, composite veneers can chip and stain easily, involving extra costs due to regular visits to the dentist. This can increase the overall cost of Porcelain veneers in the long run.

3. Time

Porcelain and composite veneers have different application times. Applying porcelain veneers takes much longer than it does with composites. With composite veneer, you can go home with a beautiful smile in just one visit. Your dentist will match the veneer to your tooth colour to place a new layer over your teeth perfectly!

You must visit the dentist several times to complete your porcelain veneer. However, the production process is done in the lab, so it only takes 2-3 visits from the start of treatment until completion! In addition, you’ll have an initial consultation where the dentist will discuss what is needed and show how it will be done from start to end with cosmetic imaging mock-ups.

Receiving porcelain veneers can take up to two or three weeks, depending on how many teeth need treatment. In the meantime, you’ll have temporary crowns applied that will last until your new pearly whites arrive.

Click to read about Comparision between Bridges and Dentures.

Porcelain vs. Composite Veneers: Which one to choose?

Porcelain veneers are the most robust, natural, and tooth-like of all cosmetic dental treatments. However, suppose you want an affordable option that’s also reversible. In that case, composite fillings may be better suited for your needs as they offer excellent smile enhancements while costing significantly less than their porcelain veneers.

Restoring your smile should be an exciting and empowering experience. You can have your confidence back with dental veneers. Book a consultation with our team by calling us on (02) 8073 8386 or dropping an email at [email protected].

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Which veneers are better, porcelain or composite?

Composite veneers are better for people who have a small budget. Porcelain veneers are better for people who have a large budget.

Composite veneers are made of plastic and resin, while porcelain veneers are made of ceramic. Composite veneers cost less than porcelain veneers. Porcelain veneers last longer than composite veneers. Composite veneers can be stained, but the porcelain cannot.

Composite veneers are less durable than porcelain veneers and may need to be replaced sooner. Porcelain veneers are more durable and will last longer. Both veneers can chip and break, but porcelain is more resistant to chipping and cracking.

So, which veneers are better, porcelain or composite? It depends on your budget and how long you want them to last.

What are the advantages of Porcelain veneers?

Porcelain veneers offer several advantages over other cosmetic dental treatments. They are extremely thin and custom-made to fit over your existing teeth, so they look completely natural. Porcelain is also very strong and durable, so your veneers will last for many years with proper care.

Another advantage of porcelain veneers is that they can be used to correct a wide variety of aesthetic concerns. For example, if you have stained or discoloured teeth, chipped or cracked teeth, gaps between your teeth, or misshapen teeth, porcelain veneers can give you the beautiful, uniform smile you’ve always wanted.

If you are considering porcelain veneers, you must consult an experienced cosmetic dentist to ensure that they are the right option for you.

What are the advantages of Composite veneers?

Composite veneers offer many of the same benefits as porcelain veneers, but there are a few key differences. Composite veneers are made of a tooth-coloured resin material, so they are not as strong or durable as porcelain veneers. However, they are less expensive than porcelain veneers and can be completed in just one office visit.

Composite veneers are also a good option for people with minor aesthetic concerns. For example, composite veneers can give you the smile you’ve always wanted if you have small chips or cracks in your teeth, gaps between your teeth, or slightly stained or discoloured teeth.

If you are considering composite veneers, you must consult an experienced cosmetic dentist to ensure that they are the right option for you.

Do dental veneers fall off?

Porcelain veneers are made of thin, translucent sheets of ceramic bonded to the teeth’ front surfaces. They are an esthetic option for correcting several dental problems, including stained, chipped, or misshapen teeth. Porcelain veneers are also more resistant to staining than composite veneers.

Composite veneers are made of a tooth-coloured resin bonded to the front surfaces of teeth. They can be used to correct the same dental problems as porcelain veneers but are not as resistant to staining.

Both porcelain and composite veneers are strong and durable but can come loose or fall off if they are not properly cared for. Brushing, flossing, and regular visits to your dentist will help keep your veneers in place. However, if a veneer does come off, it is essential to see your dentist immediately so it can be re-bonded or replaced.

Do porcelain veneers look natural?

Some porcelain veneers can look very natural, while others may not look as natural. It all depends on the materials used, the colour of the veneers, and how they are applied. If you are considering porcelain veneers, you must consult a qualified cosmetic dentist who can help you choose the suitable materials and colours to achieve the look you desire. At our practice, we use only the highest quality porcelain veneers and work closely with each patient to ensure that their final results are beautiful and natural-looking. Schedule a consultation with us today to learn more

Cosmetic Dentistry

Comparing The Two Veneer Options – Porcelain & Composite