Which Is Better, Composite or Porcelain Veneers?: Thorough Guide
Minor dental flaws have a knack for tainting even the best of smiles. Minor cosmetic dental flaws will affect your dental aesthetics, tooth functionality, and even your self-confidence.
Thank heavens you are living in this era! Our dentist has dental veneers in Vancouver, which are excellent in dealing with several minor cosmetic dental issues. They are versatile and can revamp your smile within a single visit.
Due to the advancements in dental technology, we have several types of veneers, but composite and porcelain veneers are common. So, picking the one that suits you best can be a headache. We will delve into the similarities and differences to help you make an informed decision.
Comparing Porcelain Veneers and Composite Veneers
Dental veneers are thin shells or caps that our dentist will cement over the front surface of your natural tooth to conceal dental flaws. Once they are in place, chips, discoloration, cracks, minor spaces, or even misaligned teeth will look perfect.
Unlike crowns, dental veneers are designed to cater to your aesthetic needs rather than fix structural issues. Crowns deal with serious damage to the tooth structure.
Composite and porcelain veneers have one thing in common: they save the same purpose: cover tooth imperfections and give you a beautiful smile.
In any case, let’s look at each veneer and understand its unique traits.
Porcelain Veneers
These veneers are made from a porcelain laminate material. Porcelain veneers are usually considered the crème de la crème for dental veneers since they last longer and are more durable than the other options.
Porcelain veneers are a permanent restoration, meaning they cannot be removed once bonded to the tooth. So, if you choose to get porcelain veneers, know that it is a one-way street.
During the procedure, our dentist will remove a thin layer of enamel to create room to accommodate the veneer. The next step will be to make impressions of your teeth and use the shade guide to get the correct match for your teeth. The information will be sent to the lab, and it will take about one week to complete the fabrication of your veneers.
Once the porcelain veneers are complete, you can come for your second appointment, where the veneer will be bonded to your teeth.
Composite Veneers
Composite veneers are fashioned from composite resin, which is a mix of inorganic and organic materials such as fillers, resin, and coupling agents. Composite resin veneers are also a permanent restoration.
Pros and Cons of Porcelain and Composite Dental Veneers
Both composite and porcelain veneers can improve your smile. However, depending on your situation, you may favor one more than the other. Let’s check out their pros and cons.
Composite Veneers Pros
Cost
Composite veneers are always pocket-friendly. Porcelain veneers are usually more expensive, so you can choose this cost-effective alternative if they are out of your budget.
Easier to Repair
If you veneer cracks or chips, our dentist in Vancouver can restore it in the office. This is different from porcelain veneers since they require total replacement if they crack or chip.
Require Less Prep Work
Composite veneers require less prep work, especially if you go for direct composite veneers. Our dentist will shave off very little of the enamel. At times, there might be no need to file down the tooth.
Composite Veneers Cons
Less Durable
They are quick to fix but don’t last as long as porcelain veneers. They change quickly after a year or two since they stain much faster.
Need Extra Care
They could be cost-effective, but they will need you to be extra careful since they might not maintain the aesthetic appeal they had when they were placed.
Porcelain Veneers Pros
Durability
Porcelain veneers are way stronger than composite veneers. They are considered the best since they will not chip or break easily.
Stain-Resistant
Another thing that makes porcelain veneers stand out is that you don’t have to worry about your teeth getting stained. All you have to do is keep them clean, and you are good to go.
More Natural-Looking
Porcelain looks like your teeth in almost every possible way. They give the best aesthetic appeal to ensure your smile looks its best.
Porcelain Veneers Cons
High Cost
This is by far the biggest deterrent for people wishing to get porcelain veneers. Even though people know they will get a product that looks more natural and lasts longer, the cost is still worth considering.
More Prepping Is Required
Since dental veneers near you are bulky, your teeth will need to be prepped so that they can accommodate them. So, it means more of the enamel will have to be shaved off.
What’s the Verdict?
It all boils down to your needs and preferences and what you are willing to spend. Both options will work; however, you must find out what works for you.
If you need help, contact us at Phoenix Dental Implant and Invisalign Centre Conveniently situated on Kingsway near Mount Pleasant, to schedule an appointment.