Composite vs Porcelain Veneers
If you’ve ever considered dental veneers, it’s pretty likely you’ve probably come across both porcelain and composite veneers. What is the difference you may ask? We’ll cover everything you need to know when it comes to composite vs porcelain veneers in this article!
What Are Dental Veneers?
Veneers are ‘facings’ of material that cover the facial portion of a tooth to rebuild fractures or to improve aesthetics. There are two main types of veneers - composite resin (composite) and porcelain. Each veneer is custom-made in order to replicate the look and feel of a natural tooth.
Why Would You Need Dental Veneers?
There are a number of reasons why someone might need dental veneers. Some of the most common reasons include:
Chipped or broken teeth
Stained or discoloured teeth
Malaligned teeth, that is, teeth that are out of place with each other and with your smile.
In general, dental veneers can be used to correct a wide variety of cosmetic flaws in your smile. They are thin, porcelain shells that are bonded to the surface of your teeth, and they can improve the appearance of your smile dramatically.
Composite vs Porcelain Veneers
The main difference between composite and porcelain veneers is that composite veneers are made of resin, while as the name suggests, porcelain veneers are made of porcelain.
Composite veneers are the more affordable option when compared to porcelain veneers, and they can usually be applied more quickly. However, composite veneers may not be as durable as porcelain veneers, and may not look as natural.
Composite veneers will look great for some time, however, they have the tendency to stain at the margins and the body colour of the tooth can sometimes change. Removing an off-coloured veneer can be incredibly difficult as it is hard to tell the boundary between the veneer and your tooth structure. Replacing a composite veneer comes with the risk that you will end up losing more of your original tooth.
Porcelain veneers are far less likely to stain and are much stronger and are a more durable material than composite. On very rare occasions minor staining can occur at the margin where the veneer meets the tooth, however, it is often hidden in between the teeth. Porcelain also involves less removal of the tooth structure and therefore is much better at masking stains.
Composite Veneers
How Are Composite Veneers Applied?
Composite is a white resin material that dentists regularly use for white fillings. The dentist will prepare the tooth, apply bonding agents, then the composite material is applied one layer at a time until the existing tooth is slowly covered. It is delivered in an unset form which has the consistency of modelling clay. After application and exposure to intense blue light, the resin will set and the final result is achieved after polishing. Composite veneers can be completed in one appointment, therefore they are reasonably quick to apply.
How Long Do Composite Veneers Last?
Composite veneers typically last around 3-5 years. However, this can vary depending on how well they are taken care of. It is important to note that composite veneers are not as strong as traditional porcelain veneers, so it’s exceptionally important to take good care of them by brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing regularly.
What Are the Advantages of Composite Veneers?
First and foremost, composite veneers are more affordable than traditional dental veneers. They also don’t need to be fabricated in a lab ahead of time and we can usually fit them in the same visit.
What Are the Disadvantages of Composite Veneers?
Composite veneers have some disadvantages. They can stain more easily around the margins and the surfaces than porcelain veneers, and they may not last as long.
Composite veneers also tend to be less translucent than porcelain, so they may not look quite as natural. And because composite materials are softer than porcelain, they may not be as strong and may chip or crack more easily.
Porcelain Veneers
How Are Porcelain Veneers Applied?
Porcelain veneers are designed to be bonded to the front of the tooth. When applying porcelain veneers, a dentist will prepare the tooth, usually by removing 0.3mm to 0.5mm of facial tooth structure. An impression is then made and temporary veneers are placed.
The veneers are then made in a laboratory (at Cambridge City Dental we only use Australian laboratories using materials that have been approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration, they are not sent to be fabricated abroad as there is no control over the quality of the materials used). Once they have been manufactured by the laboratory, the porcelain veneers are tried in place to check the fit, colour, shape, aesthetics and smile analysis. Once the result is achieved the veneers are bonded in place to give you the smile you deserve.
How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?
Porcelain veneers can last anywhere up to 15-20years, but this varies depending on how well you take care of them. Regular maintenance is important for their longevity so you are able to get the best out of them.
Porcelain veneers are a great way to improve the appearance of your smile. They can give you a lasting benefit without the need to have orthodontic treatment in some cases. damage them.
What Are the Advantages of Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are a popular choice for restoring the appearance of teeth because they mimic the brightness and translucency of natural teeth. They are also very strong and can withstand everyday wear and tear. Porcelain veneers may also be less likely to chip or break than other types of dental restoration procedures. Porcelain veneers are an excellent way to instantly improve your smile. If you have a wedding or an important life event and want a way to showcase your smile then veneers may be for you.
What Are the Disadvantages of Porcelain Veneers?
Cost is a factor with all cosmetic procedures and porcelain veneers can be a costly process due to the time it takes to achieve the result and because there are laboratory costs associated with making them.
Chat to the team at Cambridge City Dental for Dental Veneers!
Looking to achieve that smile you have always wanted, call Cambridge City Dental to make an appointment and see how we can take you on a journey to a beautiful smile. The team of dentists at Cambridge City Dental offers a wide variety of services in cosmetic dentistry, implant dentistry, Invisalign, family dentistry, restorative dentistry, and general dentistry. Book your consultation online or by calling (08) 9382 8266 today!