The Difference Between Porcelain and Composite Veneers

Porcelain and Composite Veneers

If you’re searching for a way to get that Hollywood smile, then veneers are an excellent choice. It is possible to replace these tooth-shaped shells over your natural teeth to hide a range of imperfections, from discolouration to crooked and gapped teeth. 

However, you’ll have to decide between porcelain and composite veneers. Don’t worry if you need help deciding which is better. We’re here to help. In this article, you’ll learn about porcelain and composite veneers and what is the difference between the two.

Porcelain Veneers

The dentist makes the porcelain veneers from thin porcelain shells and permanently bonds them to your natural teeth. These veneer types are the most durable and long-lasting. However, porcelain veneers have their cons. 

It is essential first to treat the natural teeth, which involves removing some part of the enamel to bond the veneers to the teeth properly. This change is irreversible because there’s no way to restore your tooth enamel once it is lost.  

Composite Veneers 

Composite veneers are also called composite resin veneers. The material of the veneers is composite resin, the same material used for dental fillings. While these are also permanent, composite veneers need less or no tooth preparation. 

It means removing less or no part enamel to bond composite veneers. However, porcelain veneers are less durable than composite veneers. 

What Makes Porcelain and Composite Veneers Different? 

You can see the differences between porcelain and composite veneers below: 

  1. Aesthetics

Both porcelain and composite veneers are custom-made to match the natural colour of your teeth. While both mimic your natural teeth, the aesthetics of porcelain veneers are unparalleled. Another benefit of porcelain veneers is that they don’t stain like natural teeth. However, composite veneers are more prone to staining and don’t look as natural as porcelain veneers. 

  1. Number of Dental Visits

Porcelain veneers usually require at least two visits. Your dentist will first remove a tiny layer of your enamel. After that, your dentist will then take an imprint of your teeth and send the mould to a lab. You can put on temporary veneers while you wait for the permanent ones. When you return for your second appointment, the dentist glues your porcelain veneers to your teeth with cement.

Composite veneers are quicker to apply as they can be completed chairside within the same visit. For the most natural appearance, your dentist will match the resin to the colour of your neighbouring teeth. The resin coats your teeth, which are then polished. You can leave that day with your brand-new smile. Plus! Composite veneers are reversible. 

  1. Durability

Porcelain veneers are more durable and can last 10-15 years if properly maintained. However, composite veneers only last 4-8 years, even with proper care and maintenance. Even though porcelain is fragile, it becomes pretty durable by being cemented to your natural teeth. On the other hand, porcelain is more potent than composite. 

But the downside is that one can’t fix the porcelain veneers once they get damaged, and you can only replace them. But composite veneers can be quickly resolved if it chips or gets damaged.

  1. Cost 

Porcelain veneers cost more than composite veneers. The cost of porcelain veneers in Australia begins from $900 for a single tooth. In comparison, the cost of composite veneers starts from $400 per tooth in Australia. 

Veneers in Aspendale Gardens, VIC, Australia

Aspendale Gardens Dental Care offers unmatched dental services and treatments, including veneers in Aspendale Gardens, VIC, Australia. Whether you want porcelain or composite veneers, our skilled dentists will be happy to give you a smile makeover. 

Contact us today and book your appointment.

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