Composite Veneers Vs. Porcelain Veneers
If you love to smile, but the shape and color of your teeth make you feel self-conscious, modern dentistry has come along way to help you overcome gaps, cracks, discoloration, and poorly shaped teeth.
A Veneer
When you decide to get veneers, you have two options to choose from. Either you can select a composite veneer or a porcelain veneer. Both options will be permanently placed over the problem teeth or tooth to improve your smile. However, when it comes to appearance, cost, and other similar factors, both veneers vary significantly. To help you determine which option is best for you, Dentists on Bloor has compared composite veneers vs. porcelain veneers.
1. Composite veneer
A composite veneer is typically a one visit fix with no added lab cost so it can be a cheaper option. A composite veneer can change the shape and color of the tooth and is bonded right away. If you have no time for any possible downtime, this may be the better option for you to get the immediate results you are looking for
However, there are some downfalls to the composite veneers due to limitations in the material used. A resin (composite) does not mimic the tooth exactly. It can have a slightly duller finish compared to porcelain. This option relies completely on the dentists’ ability to shape your tooth in the mouth which at times can be challenging. The material is slightly more porous and could stain over time but can be fixed very easily as well.
2. Porcelain veneer
A porcelain veneer is a more aesthetically pleasing result. Porcelain looks more like actual tooth enamel due to its physical properties. The veneer can change the shape, color, and size of your teeth with little preparation of the tooth. These are done in two visits since an external lab will make them off-site, adding slightly to the overall cost. Unfortunately, if a porcelain veneer breaks, then it can only be fixed with another porcelain veneer (no quick easy fix). They resist stain better than a composite veneer, but anything that will stain your tooth over time will also stain the veneer.
Should you choose a composite veneer or a porcelain veneer?
As you can see, both composite and porcelain veneers have their pros and cons. That said, they are both reliable dental materials to help change your smile. So if you are facing trouble deciding which option is best for you, try to consider what factors are most important to you.
Just remember that both veneers change the appearance of your teeth and improve your smile’s appearance.
Now that you are the expert on veneers, please feel free to ask us what would suit your specific situation better.
Truly,
Dr. Sharon Walden
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