Thinking about getting veneers? Feel pretty confident it’s the right move for your smile?
Great decision.
But have you thought about what type of veneers you might have fitted?
We didn’t think so.
But don’t worry, you’re not on your own. Many people decide to have veneers without considering – or often even realising – that there are multiple options on the market.
The good news is the team at The Smile Clinic is here to help. Here we take a closer look at the different types of veneers available, highlighting their benefits – and their drawbacks – so you can make an informed choice on the right treatment for your smile.
Types of veneer
Porcelain veneers
Porcelain veneers are the stalwart of the veneer family. The traditional option (and many would argue, the best), they are made from a thin layer of carefully crafted porcelain which is placed directly over the surface of each tooth where a veneer is required.
Pros
- Tried and tested, porcelain veneers have been used for decades and are the trusted solution for many cosmetic dentists.
- Available in multiple shade options, they are easy to tone with the colour of your natural teeth.
- Porcelain veneers are durable, hard-wearing and stain resistant.
- Being slightly thicker, porcelain veneers can successfully mask a wide range of problems including chipped, worn or crooked teeth, discolouration, fluorosis, and gummy smiles.
- Long-lasting, with proper care you can expect to enjoy porcelain veneers for up to 15 years – often even longer.
Cons
- Porcelain veneers carry a hefty price tag. Typically, you can expect a single veneer to cost in the region of £895.
- The process of fitting porcelain veneers is lengthy compared to alternative options – although at The Smile Clinic we usually try to complete the treatment within two 1.5-hour appointments.
- To ensure a secure and natural fit, a small amount of tooth enamel is filed away from the surface of the tooth. This means that the procedure is irreversible and whilst you can replace veneers, once fitted, your natural tooth cannot be restored.
Composite veneers
Sometimes referred to as composite resin veneers, these are a cost-effective option that can be applied in one dental visit.
Put simply, a composite veneer is a clever resin that is applied individually to the surface of each tooth requiring treatment. The resin is applied in thin layers which are then gently sculpted into the desired shape.
Pros
- Hardwearing and strong.
- Minimal tooth reduction is required.
- A more affordable alternative to porcelain veneers.
- If a composite veneer becomes chipped or damaged, repairs are easy to carry out.
Cons
- Composite veneers are weaker and less stain resistant than traditional veneers.
- Made from a special resin rather than porcelain, composite veneers aren’t expected to last as long – usually anywhere between 2 and 5 years, depending on how well they are looked after.
Lumineers
Lumineers are the brand name for incredibly thin porcelain veneers – think the thinnest of the thin. Typically, less than 0.2mm thick!
There is usually minimal work needed to prepare the natural tooth in readiness for Lumineers, making the treatment fast, effective and pain-free.
Pros
- They cost less than standard porcelain veneers.
- Little to no tooth reduction is required to apply Lumineers – the benefits of this are twofold. Firstly, they can be reversed if no tooth reduction is needed and secondly, anaesthetic is rarely required.
Cons
- Ultra-thin, Lumineers are more susceptible to damage than traditional veneers.
- Being less durable means they typically don’t last as long as porcelain veneers.
- As Lumineers are so thin there is a limit to the level of correction that can be accomplished with them.
Still unsure?
If you’re still undecided about the best veneer treatment to solve your smile concerns, why not get in touch?
Our experienced team are on hand and ready to offer help and guidance to ensure you make the right choice for your smile.
Call us on 020 7971 1909 or email [email protected]. Alternatively, benefit from a free e-consultation by sending in a photograph of your smile, with details of what you’d like to change about it, and we’ll get back to you with expert advice on the right dental veneers for you.
