Porcelain veneers and composite veneers are both popular cosmetic dentistry options for enhancing the appearance of the teeth, but they have some key differences. Making a suitable choice between porcelain vs composite veneers depends on various factors, including your specific needs, budget, and personal preferences.
Before you settle for composite or porcelain veneers, you need to seek guidance from an experienced cosmetic dentist to be sure you’re making the best choice for you.
If you’re within California, you can consult with the best cosmetic dentist in Beverly Hills at Bedford Dental Group for your composite or porcelain veneers. With a track record of over 10,000 cases and 17 years in the industry, we possess the expertise and experience you need for a successful porcelain veneer installation. Book a free consultation with us today let’s discuss your needs and provide you with the best solution.
In this article, we’ll explore the different types of veneers and the differences between them so you can make informed decisions on porcelain veneers vs composite veneers.
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are thin shells of porcelain that are custom-made to fit over the front surface of a tooth. They are a cosmetic dentistry option used to improve the appearance of teeth by addressing issues such as discoloration, stains, chips, cracks, or minor misalignments.
Cosmetic dentists design veneers to imitate the natural look of teeth and can provide a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution for individuals seeking to enhance their smiles. To achieve overall authenticity, porcelain veneers are also designed to be translucent and shiny to look like the enamel of a natural tooth.
The cost of a full mouth of porcelain veneers ranges between $20,000 and $70,000.
The Process of Getting Porcelain Veneers
Here’s a step-by-step guide on the process of getting porcelain veneers:
1. Consultation with a Cosmetic Dentist
The first step is to schedule a consultation with a cosmetic dentist. During this visit, you will discuss your needs and expectations with a professional cosmetic dentist to determine if porcelain veneers are a suitable option for you. Typically, the dentist will consider important factors such as your teeth issue and your budget. The dentist will also examine your teeth and overall oral health to ensure you’re a good candidate for the procedure.
At Bedford Dental Group, you can take advantage of our flexible and affordable payment plans to install your dental veneers without breaking the bank. Start by reaching out to us today.
2. Teeth Preparation
Once you decide to proceed, the dentist will prepare your teeth to make room for the veneer. To do this, the doctor will remove a small amount of your enamel from the front surface of the tooth.
This porcelain veneer procedure is necessary to make sure the veneer fits properly and to create a bonding surface for the veneer. It also ensures that the veneers look natural.
3. Impressions
After preparing the teeth, the doctor takes an impression or mold of the teeth. These impressions are sent to a dental lab where your custom porcelain veneers will be fabricated. The lab uses these molds to create veneers that match the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth.
4. Temporary Veneers
While you wait for your permanent veneers to be made, the dentist will place temporary veneers on your teeth. This is because the creation of porcelain veneers may last up to 2-7 days. These protect your prepared teeth and help you get used to the feel of veneers.
5. Bonding
Once the porcelain veneers are ready, you’ll return to the dentist for the final bonding process. The dentist will check the fit and color before permanently bonding them to the teeth using a strong adhesive.
A special light is often used to harden the adhesive and secure the veneer in place. Then a final adjustment is made to ensure proper fit and bite alignment, optimizing both the appearance and functionality of your new veneers.
6. Post Installation Care
Finally, after healing from the pains of installing veneers, the dentist will give instructions on how to care for your veneers, including oral hygiene practices and the necessary follow-up appointments. It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene and avoid habits that could damage your veneers, such as biting hard objects. Regular dental check-ups will ensure your veneers remain in excellent condition.
What Are Composite Veneers?
Composite and porcelain veneers are similar; however, instead of porcelain, composite veneers are crafted from a tooth-colored composite resin material that is directly applied and shaped on the teeth. This type of veneer is also known as direct composite veneer because the composite material is applied directly onto the teeth by the dentist.
Composite resin veneers are more cost-effective and flexible. The material consists of thin layers of tooth-colored resin material, which is used for covering a bad tooth. This resin material used for composite veneers makes it easy to refill when it breaks or cracks.
The Process of Getting Composite Veneers
Composite veneers don’t take much time to produce. You can get a composite veneer installed in a day or two. Below are essential processes for wearing a composite veneer:
- Removal and reshaping of tooth enamel and front surface to ensure proper bonding.
- The dentist uses the new shape and size of the tooth to mold a custom composite veneer in a few hours.
- A dental bonding adhesive is applied on the reshaped and scrapped tooth before the composite is fixed.
- The dentist inserts the new composite to fit perfectly.
- Next, a high-intensity light is used to harden the composite veneer for a lasting effect.
- Finally, the dentist adjusts the veneer where necessary.
Composite Veneers vs Porcelain Veneers: What Are the Differences?
While both porcelain and composite are veneers, they differ in terms of material, appearance, and other factors. Let’s consider the differences under these categories.
Material
Porcelain veneers are made of thin shells of dental porcelain, a ceramic material that closely resembles natural teeth enamel while composite veneers are crafted from a tooth-colored composite resin, a blend of plastic and glass.
Appearance
Porcelain veneers give a natural and translucent appearance that closely imitates natural teeth. On the other hand, composite veneers can achieve a natural look but may not have the same translucency as porcelain.
Preparation
Unlike composite veneers, porcelain veneers require more extensive tooth preparation. Composite veneers typically involve minimal enamel removal, preserving more of the natural tooth structure.
Application Process
Dental technicians produce porcelain veneers in a dental laboratory following impressions taken during the initial appointment. The porcelain veneers are bonded to the teeth in a separate appointment. For composite veneers, doctors apply them directly to the teeth during a single visit. The composite resin is sculpted and shaped by the dentist.
Durability
Porcelain veneers are generally more durable and resistant to staining compared to composite veneers. They can last for many years with proper care. Composite veneers may require more frequent maintenance and replacement.
Cost
Porcelain veneers are more expensive than composite veneers. The cost of porcelain veneers may fall between $600 to as premium as $3,000 per tooth. Composite veneers are generally more cost-effective, making them a more accessible option for people on a budget.
Repairability
It’s more difficult to repair porcelain veneers when chipped or damaged. Contrarily, composite veneers can be repaired or modified more easily in the event of damage or staining.
Timeframe For Installation
The process for installing porcelain veneers involves multiple appointments, including an initial consultation, tooth preparation, and a separate appointment for bonding. For composite veneers, a single appointment is enough, providing a more immediate transformation.
Aesthetic Longevity
Porcelain veneers tend to maintain their color stability and aesthetic appeal over a longer period. Composite veneers may require more frequent touch-ups and maintenance to preserve their appearance.
Real-Life Experiences of Porcelain Vs Composite Veneers
Opinions on porcelain versus composite veneers differ based on individual experiences. While many people prefer porcelain for its durability and natural appearance, others find composite veneers more cost-effective and easier to repair. The decision between the two is frequently determined by personal preferences, which weigh aesthetics against practical factors like cost and maintenance.
One example is 28-year-old Brian, who had a stained and uneven set of teeth which, according to him, disfigured his smile and made him embarrassed to smile in public. With the recommendation of a friend, he consulted with a cosmetic dentist.
Due to the significant discoloration and unevenness of his teeth, the dentist recommended porcelain veneers. Although the process took some time, Brian was satisfied with the outcome as he regained his confident smile again.
On the other hand, Charles had a small stain on his tooth and also needed a minor correction for one cracked tooth. Since he was on a budget, the cosmetic dentist recommended composite veneers for a quicker and more affordable fix.
Eventually, these two patients fixed their dental issues using dental veneers according to the uniqueness of their needs. Their cases also illustrate the importance of consulting with an experienced cosmetic dentist before choosing veneers.
Want To Know if Porcelain or Composite Veneers Are the Right Choice for You?
Ultimately, the type of dental veneers that are suitable for you depends on different factors. Before choosing dental veneers to fix your teeth, it’s crucial to analyze these factors with your cosmetic dentist to arrive at the best option for you and your unique smile.
Feel free to contact our expert cosmetic dentist today at Bedford Dental Group for personalized advice tailored to your specific needs. Your dream smile makeover is just a consultation away!
