Composite Versus Porcelain Veneers

Do you have issues with the appearance of your smile? For the issues that you have that are more difficult to fix, veneers eden prairie minnesota may be just the solution for you. Veneers are custom-made covers that are bonded to the front of the natural teeth. If you have heard a lot about dental veneers but are not sure which type of veneer is best for you, here is more information on two popular types: composite and porcelain veneers.

Types of Dental Veneers

If you are considering getting dental veneers, there are several possible types to consider. You should schedule a visit with your dentist to talk through some of the options available to you. Porcelain and composite veneers are two of the most popular types of dental veneers:

  • Porcelain Veneers: Today, porcelain veneers are the most popular type of veneer. Traditional porcelain veneers are a ceramic veneer that are custom-made to have a natural look similar to your existing teeth. Porcelain veneers are highly recommended by dentists because the material is durable and long-lasting. To prepare for porcelain veneers, teeth will need to be reshaped and reduced in size, which may not be ideal for some patients.
  • Composite Veneers: Composite veneers are an effective and affordable alternative to the traditional porcelain veneers. Composite veneers are made of composite material. No preparation is needed before composite veneers are placed. While they do not have the same durability as porcelain veneers, composite veneers can be just as effective in correcting your dental issues.

Comparisons Between Porcelain and Composite Veneers

There are many pros and cons to weigh when considering the differences between composite and porcelain veneers. Here are some important factors to consider:

  • Estimated Costs: Composite veneers may cost half as much as porcelain. Composite veneers cost on average between $250 and $1,500 per tooth. Porcelain veneers are a large investment up front that must be evaluated.
  • Durability: Composite veneers have a number of advantages over porcelain, except when it comes to durability. Porcelain is a much stronger material than composite. Well-cared for porcelain veneers can last 10 to 15 years, compared to the five- to seven-year lifespan of composite veneers. It is important to consider durability when you consider costs, even though composite veneers cost half as much as porcelain, they last only half as long.
  • Appearance: It is commonly believed that porcelain veneers offer the most natural, tooth-like appearance. Porcelain has a translucent quality that is similar to tooth enamel. Porcelain is also highly resistant to staining and chipping. Composite veneers are more porous, susceptible to staining, and need to be polished.
  • Preparation: The porcelain veneer preparation procedure is more involved, including a step of trimming the natural teeth to prepare them for the veneers. Sometimes porcelain veneers require temporaries be worn while you wait for the porcelain veneers to be made in the lab. Composite veneers require no preparation.

The best way to determine which type of veneer is best for you is to have a conversation with your dentist to talk through your oral health goals. At the end of the day, regardless of which type of veneer you decide is best for you, you will be satisfied with the big impact veneers have on your smile.

More on Porcelain Veneers : How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?