Whether it’s to brighten your smile or improve the aesthetic appearance of your pearly whites, veneers are the perfect option. It’s a painless procedure that offers amazing results. Not to mention, you don’t have to worry about constant repairs and upgrades. However, what you do need to focus on is the type of veneers to opt for. Essentially, there are two kinds of dental veneers; porcelain veneers vs. composite. But it’s the difference between them that really makes the two stand out. Keep on reading this blog to find out more.
What are Veneers?
Dental veneers are thin shells that cup the surface of your teeth. They’re bonded with resin for a long-lasting stay. Moreover, veneers help with enhancing the aesthetic of your teeth. From removing blemishes to stains to crooked shapes and sizes, they’re a wonderful option if you want to reform your teeth.
What are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are made out of pure porcelain. They’re the traditional choice when it comes to cosmetic procedures. Additionally, the best way to describe porcelain veneers is to imagine press-on nails. They’re thin, slightly curved, and contoured enough to hug the natural shape of your teeth.
It doesn’t matter how damaged your pearly whites are; with a porcelain veneer slapped on top of them, you won’t be able to tell the difference. Not to mention, since porcelain best resembles the texture of a tooth, wearing them looks extremely natural and lightweight.
What are Composite Veneers?
One of the most lightweight options, composite veneers, are translucent coverings made from composite resin. In most cases, composite veneers are used to cover up minimal blemishes, cracks, chips, and the like. This is because their main purpose is to enhance the appearance of your teeth. They’re not suitable for full-fledged coverups.
Moreover, depending on the severity of your damaged teeth, your dentist might suggest a small coverup. This means that rather than coating your entire tooth with resin, they’d apply the solution only to the critically damaged parts.
Porcelain Veneers vs. Composite Bonding: How Are They Different?
It might not seem like it, but porcelain veneers and composite resin have a lot of differences. Where one offers complete protection, the other is limited to a minimal coating. Nonetheless, to better understand the contrast between the two types of veneers, it’s better to look at their subcategories:
- Lifespan
Porcelain veneers have the tendency to last for a very long time. They can easily stay in place for a decade or more, which equals 10 to 15 years. Composite veneers, on the other hand, only last for up to 5 to 8 years. - Aesthetic Appearance
Since porcelain is resistant to stains and has a natural finish, porcelain veneers look incredibly real. They act and look just like natural teeth. From shine to function, they’re classic in all fields. In contrast, composite veneers are prone to stains. So much so that they can even stain your natural teeth. This is why they’re only best for temporary usage. - Cost
Due to all the advantages, porcelain veneers are more expensive when compared to composite veneers. - Application Time
Applying porcelain veneers takes a lot of patience, experience, and focus. That is why dentists take around two visits, at the very least, to complete the application process. At the same time, composite veneers can be applied in only one chairside visit. - Maintenance
It doesn’t matter if you have porcelain veneers or composite. You have to take proper care of your teeth and gums either way, especially if you want to maintain them for a long time. To do that, make sure to brush your teeth and floss on the regular. - Removal
Sadly, porcelain veneers are permanent. Once applied, you cannot reverse the process. However, composite veneers can be taken out whenever you’d like.
Closing Word
The big difference between porcelain veneers vs. composite comes down to their longevity and appearance. One option is long-lasting, whereas the other is a little on the temporary side and translucent. Nonetheless, for more information, contact Porter Smiles Dental at (281) 519-7200. If you would like to schedule an appointment for a cosmetic dentistry procedure, you can visit our dental office at 21693 FM1314 #700, Porter, TX 77365. It’s right beside Southern Maid Donuts.