Composite veneers vs. Porcelain veneers | Which One is better?
Are you looking to level up your smile game with dental veneers? If yes, then you’ll most likely be presented with the option to either go for composite or porcelain veneers. While the Composite veneers vs. Porcelain veneers debate can be a tough one to crack, we have a comprehensive guide to help you out.
In this article, we’ll cover everything from what dental veneers are to what are the major differences between Composite veneers vs. Porcelain veneers.
What are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are thin shells made of biocompatible materials, usually composite or porcelain, and are bonded to the surface of your teeth. They are tooth-colored and can be tailored in terms of color, size, and shape to mimic the appearance of your natural teeth.
You should definitely opt for dental veneers if your teeth are:
- Chipped, broken, or cracked.
- Stained and can’t be fixed with normal store-bought whitening products.
- Worn down and so don’t look aesthetically pleasing.
- Uneven, irregularly shaped, or slightly misaligned.
- Separated by an unusual gap or gaps.
Major Differences Between Composite veneers vs. Porcelain veneers
Before you make a decision on what to get between Composite veneers vs. Porcelain veneers, it’s important to understand their differences.
Aesthetics and Reversibility
In the battle of Composite veneers vs. Porcelain veneers, porcelain no doubt looks more like natural teeth. Composite veneers are also highly similar, but if you’re critical, you will notice the difference. Another benefit of porcelain veneers is that they are stain-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about whitening them ever again. Composite veneers, however, stain just like natural teeth.
It’s also important to note that since getting porcelain veneers involves removing a layer of your teeth, it is irreversible. Composite veneers are less invasive, so they are easier to remove if you are not satisfied with the result.
Procedure Time
If we talk about which of the two veneers is quicker in terms of the overall procedure, composite veneers win without a doubt. Composite resin veneers can be applied to your teeth in a single appointment. The dentist will simply create a composite resin mixture of the same color as your teeth and apply it. Next, they’ll cure the composite material to harden and then polish it for a more smooth and natural look.
On the other hand, a porcelain veneer treatment usually takes two chairside visits. In the first one, the dentist will remove a thin layer of your target teeth and take impressions of the surface to send to a dental lab. The impressions will act as a mold for your porcelain veneers. Once they are fabricated, the dentist will apply them to your teeth using dental cement on your second visit.
Composite veneers, however, stain just like natural teeth.
It’s also important to note that since getting porcelain veneers involves removing a layer of your teeth, it is irreversible. Composite veneers are less invasive, so they are easier to remove if you are not satisfied with the result.
Total Cost
Now let’s discuss Composite veneers vs. Porcelain veneers in terms of cost. Composite ones are cheaper, with an average upfront cost of $800 per tooth, whereas a porcelain veneer is generally more expensive and can cost you between $900 to $2,500. This is because porcelain veneers require two visits, dental lab work, and more expertise.
That being said, composite veneers do require replacement and repair more often than porcelain ones, so the overall cost of both types evens out over time.
Composite veneers, however, stain just like natural teeth.
It’s also important to note that since getting porcelain veneers involves removing a layer of your teeth, it is irreversible. Composite veneers are less invasive, so they are easier to remove if you are not satisfied with the result.
Longlastingness
Porcelain veneers are a more strong and permanent solution to aesthetic tooth problems than composite veneers. They can even last a good 20 years before needing to be replaced if you diligently take care of them. Composite veneers, on the other hand, can only last up to 5-7 years.
This is because they are a mix of plastic and ceramic materials that are not as high-strength as porcelain. So naturally, composite veneers are more prone to damage. Since porcelain veneers are stronger, they are also more effective in protecting your natural teeth from external damaging factors.
Composite veneers, however, stain just like natural teeth.
It’s also important to note that since getting porcelain veneers involves removing a layer of your teeth, it is irreversible. Composite veneers are less invasive, so they are easier to remove if you are not satisfied with the result.
Arthur Yeh Dental Porcelain Veneers Results
- Before: Undersized upper lateral incisors
- After: Whitening followed by veneers on the upper lateral incisors
How to Care for both Composite veneers and Porcelain veneers
Now that we’ve covered all the differences between the two veneer types in this Composite veneers vs. Porcelain veneers guide, it’s time to discuss a major similarity. The techniques recommended to take care of both veneer types are mostly the same:
- Brush your teeth two times every day, preferably with a fluoride toothpaste. Make sure you don’t brush too hard and don’t use a hard bristled brush.
- Unfortunately, veneers can’t completely save you from plaque and tartar. So it’s important that you avoid buildup by flossing once a day.
- Don’t chew on hard things or use your teeth for tasks like unscrewing a cap. Forget weak composite veneers, even porcelain veneers can get chipped this way.
- Avoid sugary food that can serve as food for plaque to avoid cavities. Also, avoid staining foods and beverages like tea and coffee. If you can’t, make sure to brush soon after.
- Avoid smoking, a major cause of teeth discoloration, and slow down on the alcohol as it can soften the dental solution, binding the veneers to your teeth.
- Lastly, make sure you routinely get your teeth checked for cleaning and minor adjustments at least once every 6 months.
Contact a High-Quality Veneers Expert in Montclair, NJ Today
Getting any dental procedure done is an intimidating thought, especially if it’s a cosmetic dentistry technique. If anything goes wrong or the dentist doesn’t share the same vision as you, the resulting teeth can be undesirable. So, if you really want to get porcelain or composite veneers in Montclair, NJ, the best place to go is Dr. Arthur Yeh & Associates.
We have a cutting-edge facility and seasoned experts to make sure your resulting veneers give you the exact look you desire. We start our veneer treatment with an in-depth consultation where our expert will discuss the results you want and address all your concerns. Then, they’ll create a personalized treatment plan to make sure you get the smile of your dreams.
Final Verdict
So, what is the better type of veneer? Well, that depends entirely on your preference and what your dentist suggests. Now that you know everything about Composite veneers vs. Porcelain veneers, the decision will be much easier. Just remember the key points: composite veneers are the quick and reversible option, but porcelain ones are more long-lasting and natural-looking. The cost for both, in the long run, is even.
To start your journey towards a dazzling smile with the best porcelain veneers in Montclair, NJ, book a consultation with Dr. Arthur Yeh & Associates today. We’re dedicated to sharing your vision and turning it into reality.