First impressions are crucial; whether you’re applying for a job or just trying to impress someone, it’s pretty understandable why many of us make great efforts to look good. For some, they could even just get through by just having a great smile, while others have this as one of their insecurities. With that said, are your teeth stressing you out? Maybe it’s time to consider getting a dental makeover and getting veneers. There are two kinds: porcelain and composite, and if you’ve been wondering which is right for you, you’ve come to the right place.
What are veneers?
Veneers are one of the most widely used dental enhancements today. This is because they’re a quick way to improve the quality of your teeth by simply applying a thin, custom-made cover on the surface of your teeth. As a result, you can now sport better-aligned teeth and a whiter smile. There are two types of veneers, which are porcelain and composite veneers. Knowing the difference between the two can help you choose the option that’s better aligned with your wants and needs according to your budget.
Porcelain veneers and their top-tier aesthetics with guaranteed longevity.
Compared to its counterpart, porcelain veneers are considered the gold standard because of their unparalleled aesthetics and longevity. Porcelain veneers are made up of high-quality ceramic materials like leucite (Lumineers) and lithium disilicate (Emax), which imitate the natural look of tooth enamel. As mentioned above, they’re fashioned into custom-made shapes, which are then bonded to the front of your teeth to enhance their appearance. Because of their natural look, porcelain veneers are often mistaken for real teeth since they reflect light in a lifelike way, which gives you that natural smile.
When it comes to durability, porcelain veneer is also a better option compared to composite resin. The former is more stain-resistant because of its smooth and non-porous surface, making discoloration from consuming colored beverages like coffee, wine, or other staining agents harder. Plus, with proper care and maintenance, you best believe your veneers could last you around 10 to 15 years—or perhaps even longer.
These reasons are what make them the top choice for cosmetic dentistry treatments, with their high resistance against cracking and chipping. The process of getting porcelain veneers is pretty quick, too, thanks to modern technology and your dentist’s skills.
It begins with your resident dentist removing a thin layer of enamel from the front of your teeth to make way for the placement of veneers. From there, the dentist will take and create your dental impressions, from which your veneers will be based. They will then proceed to apply temporary veneers until the permanent ones are ready for bonding, which usually happens during the second appointment.
The only drawback of porcelain veneers is their high cost, typically ranging from $1,500 to $3,000 per tooth. Given how expensive it is, it’s best to discuss a feasible payment option with your dentist so you can avail such services without paying a huge sum upfront or see if it’s covered by your dental insurance.
When it comes to convenience and budget, composite veneers rule the game.
Don’t dismiss composite veneers just yet—you’d be surprised at what these can offer! Sure, they may just be a contender next to porcelain veneers, but composite veneers are the next best thing. Unlike their counterpart, they’re made with a tooth-colored resin, similar to the one used in dental fillings, so they also look natural, just not as polished as porcelain veneers.
When it comes to crafting composite veneers, they’re also made and applied faster. The process is fairly quick since the dentist can sculpt and apply it directly to your teeth on the same day. Because of this, there’s no need for you to wear temporary veneers while waiting for the permanent ones to be fabricated from the dental laboratory.
Another reason why some opt for composite veneers is that they’re also more affordable than porcelain ones. This is ideal for individuals who have a pretty tight budget but are determined to improve their smiles.
On the other hand, composite veneers are not as stain-resistant and durable as their expensive counterpart. Resin is more porous, which makes composite veneers susceptible to staining. You should also be aware that this veneer type is prone to chipping, with a lifespan ranging from 5 to 7 years, even with meticulous maintenance and care. On the bright side, composite veneers can be repaired easily and have an affordable price tag in case damage occurs.
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