Decided to invest in veneers?
Great decision – but not your last!
In fact, there are numerous choices to make when it comes to getting veneers. Which cosmetic dentist to use, how many veneers to have, the exact shade of white, the list goes on.
But the decision that often gets overlooked? What type of veneers to go for?
Surprised? You’re not on your own.
Many people fail to realise that when it comes to veneers there’s more than one option. Two of the most popular are composite veneers and porcelain veneers. But what’s the difference? And which one is right for you?
What is a porcelain veneer?
A porcelain veneer is just that – a thin layer of porcelain attached to each individual tooth.
Durable, natural-looking and long-lasting they are perhaps the most sought-after veneers.
Treatment for porcelain veneers typically takes 2 appointments. Whilst pain-free, they do involve some removal of enamel from the surface of the natural tooth. This is to ensure the veneers securely adhere and fit perfectly to the shape of the tooth.
Covering the entire surface of the tooth they are non-porous and hardy to stains. With proper care, you can expect them to look as good as new for many years to come. Their average life span is around 15 years, but there’s no reason they can’t last much longer than this if well looked after.
Sounds great doesn’t it, but they don’t come cheap. Porcelain veneers start at £895 and they are classed as a permanent treatment. Once you commit to veneers there’s no going back to your original natural teeth – but why would you want to?
What is a composite veneer?
A composite veneer (sometimes referred to as a ‘direct’ or ‘instant’ veneer) is created by applying layers of a composite resin material directly to the tooth. This resin is sculpted into shape, before being carefully smoothed and polished.
With treatment completed in just one visit, composite veneers offer a fast, effective and popular treatment. No enamel is removed to fit this type of veneer. Because of this, the treatment is classed as reversible you have the option of going back to exposing the natural tooth.
A key reason for the popularity of this type of veneer is the price. Substantially cheaper than opting for porcelain veneers, composites start from £495 per tooth. Important to bear in mind they don’t last as long as porcelain veneers though – typically 2-5 years. And as a porous material, they are also susceptible to staining, so not ideal for smokers or anyone addicted to caffeine.
Take a look at some of the fanatic results we’ve achieved with composite veneers.
What other types of veneers are there?
Whilst porcelain and composite veneers are typically the most trusted type of veneers, there are other options available. Including:
· Lumineers
These are wafer-thin pieces of porcelain, but they differ from porcelain veneers in the fact that they don’t require any prep work or filing. Instead, Lumineers simply stick to the surface of teeth.
Best used for smiles where teethare slightly gapped or set back,as they can wrap around the edges of teeth to close small gaps and bring the teeth forward slightly.
· Snap-on veneers
Made from plastic, snap-on veneers are similar to wearing a gum shield and fit over the surface of teeth as a temporary way to conceal the appearance of your own teeth.
Flawed, in the sense that if one tooth protrudes the entire shield will need to stick out in the same way, they aren’t really considered to be a serious contender by cosmetic dentists.
· Cerec veneers
Fitted in just one day, cerec veneers are machine-made. Using clever technology might sound foolproof but how good they look is entirely dependent on the competency of the details entered into the computer system by the dentist.
How do you know which veneers are right for you?
You don’t!
Which is why it’s important to seek the advice and guidance of an experienced professional cosmetic dentist if you’re deliberating between composite bonding Vs porcelain veneers.
At Harley Street Smile Clinic, we offer everyone a free e-consultation. Simply email in a close-up of your smile with details of what it is you’d like to change and we’ll get back to you with recommendations on the most appropriate veneer choice for your smile and a personalised quote.
Get in touch
If the fact there’s more than one type of veneer took you by surprise, be sure to read our blog ‘10 things you need to know before getting veneers’ covering everything you need to be aware of and ensuring you’re armed with all the facts.
Don’t forget you can also get in touch with the team, who are always happy to offer their expert advice and answer any queries about the difference between composite and porcelain veneers.
