Pros and Cons: Composite Veneers vs. Porcelain Veneers

 

It is not uncommon to have an imperfect smile. People have always dreamed about achieving that celebrity smile and a way of achieving this is by getting veneers. Veneers are popular because not only do you get a better appearance, but it also seems like it’s just your natural teeth. Veneers are thin tooth-colored coverings designed to cover the tooth to improve its appearance. These are customized and bonded to the surface of your teeth. There are two types of veneers you can choose from; Direct Veneers (aka Composite Veneers), and Indirect Veneers (aka Porcelain Veneers).

 

How are veneers done?

 

The dentist will shave off a thin part of the labial surface of your teeth to allow reshaping and also to improve the bonding of the material. For composite veneers, composite is carved, bonded, and polished after shaving the labial surface. For porcelain veneers, an impression will be taken to make a cast to be sent to the lab. Temporary veneers will then be provided while waiting for your final veneers. after about a week or two, the final cementation of your porcelain veneers will be done.

 

Composite or Direct Veneers

 

Composite veneers are made of composite resin carved directly onto your tooth. These are prepared chairside and can be done in just one session. This option is cheaper than porcelain veneers. Composite veneers are also less superior to porcelain veneers.

Pros:
Less expensive than porcelain veneers
Can be done in one visit
Natural looking (depending on the dentist’s expertise)

Cons:
Not as durable as porcelain veneers
Stains through time
Shorter life span than porcelain veneers
High maintenance – you might need to have them repolished or repaired a few times
Technique sensitive – must have a good dentist to achieve natural-looking composite veneers
Irreversible

Porcelain Veneers

 

Porcelain veneers are indirectly made in the lab. There are a few types of porcelains to choose from. The dentist will be the one to decide which material is best for you. This type of veneer is the most superior and is recommended to achieve the best-looking smile.

Pros:
Durable
Does not stain
Long life span
Aesthetic – realistic tooth-like appearance
low maintenance – very easy to clean

Cons:
more expensive than composite veneers
cannot be done in one session
Irreversible

 

Can everyone get veneers?

 

Unfortunately, not everyone is a candidate for veneers. Below are the indications and contraindications for veneers.

Indications:

• Discolored or stained teeth
• Multiple mild diastemas
• Chipped teeth
• Mildly malpositioned teeth

Contraindications:

• Poor Oral Hygiene
• Severe Diastema
• Moderately to Severely malpositioned teeth
• Parafunctional habits like bruxism, clenching