Porcelain Veneers vs. Composite Veneers 2024

What Are Veneers?

Dental veneers are custom-made, thin shells that get bonded over the surface of teeth. The thin layer can successfully cover up discolouration or staining or address gaps, imperfections, and damage, making veneers a popular cosmetic dental treatment.

Benefits of Veneers

Benefits of veneers include:

Mimic the appearance of natural teeth, especially porcelain veneers with their light-reflecting properties
Feel and function like regular teeth
Durable
Long lifespan
Resistant to stains
Can correct a wide range of aesthetic concerns
Straightforward procedure with minimal discomfort

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What Are the Types of Veneers?

The two main types of veneers are porcelain veneers and composite veneers. Both types of veneers are popular options for addressing gaps, staining, damage, and other aesthetic issues.

Porcelain and composite veneers have unique traits that give them pros and cons to consider. The best way to choose between porcelain veneers and composite veneers is with a consultation with your dentist, but here is a look at their pros and cons to get you started.

Differences Between Porcelain and Composite Veneers

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are custom-made from porcelain material to adhere to the surface of your teeth. They can be used cosmetically or restoratively to address the colour, shape, and size of teeth.

Pros of porcelain veneers:

Longer lifespan than composite veneers
More durable than composite veneers
More suitable for patients with significant damage or cosmetic concerns
More resistant to discolouration and staining
Resembles natural teeth more due to light-reflecting properties

Cons of porcelain veneers:

Pricier than composite veneers
More difficult and expensive to replace in the event of damage

Composite Veneers

Composite veneers are made from translucent composite resin material.

Pros of composite veneers include:

More affordable than porcelain veneers
May require less enamel to be removed compared to porcelain veneers
Composite veneers are easier to replace than porcelain veneers in the vent of damage or breakage

Cons of composite veneers:

Do not last as long as porcelain veneers
Not as durable as porcelain veneers

How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?

When maintained properly, porcelain veneers are your best option for the longest lifespan. Porcelain veneers can last 10 years, or up to 15 years when well-cared for.

How Long Do Composite Veneers Last?

Composite veneers have a shorter lifespan compared to porcelain veneers. I tell my patients they can generally expect composite veneers to last around 5 years when cared for properly.

Why Are Veneers Popular?

Veneers are a popular cosmetic dental treatment due to the incredible transformation that can be achieved with a relatively straightforward procedure. You can view some of the before and after veneer results on our Veneers Perth page.

Veneers require minimal adjustment time and discomfort but can offer a long-lasting solution to a variety of concerns regarding your smile’s appearance.

Part of the reason behind veneers popularity is their ability to correct a vast range of aesthetic dental concerns, such as:

Staining or discolouration
Chips in teeth
Minor damage
Gaps or spacing issues
Crooked teeth
Overall appearance
Misshapen teeth
Worn down teeth
Uneven teeth
Decay

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How Are Veneers Maintained?

My patients often wonder what is involved in caring for veneers. They often worry that the maintenance will be difficult to keep up with. Fortunately, taking care of veneers is similar to caring for your regular teeth.

A good oral hygiene routine and regular visits with your dentist will go a long way in maximising the lifespan of your veneers.

Along with brushing twice a day and flossing every day, here are other steps to long-term veneer care:

Avoid abrasive toothpastes
Do not brush aggressively or with a hard-bristled toothbrush
Be careful when flossing around the edge of veneers
Do not chew on hard, non-food items (pens, pencils, fingernails, ice cubes, etc.)
Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods
Do not open packages with your teeth or use your teeth as tools
Ask your dentist about a protective bite split if you grind your teeth at night
Wear a custom mouthguard if you play contact sports
If you experience an issue with your veneers, contact your dentist right away to address the problem immediately

Should I Choose Porcelain or Composite Veneers?

Both composite and porcelain veneers can give you a bright, straight smile you can’t wait to show off. However, it is important to consider which type is most suitable for your budget, aesthetic goals, and the condition of your teeth and gums.

If your budget is your most important consideration, your best option may be composite veneers. If you are interested in the longest-lasting, most durable type of veneers, I usually recommend porcelain veneers as the better choice. The best way to decide is with the help of your dentist.

Need Advice on How to Choose Between Porcelain and Composite Veneers?

Have you wished for a smile that was brighter, straighter, or healthier looking? If you have damaged, misshapen, discoloured, or chipped teeth, contact us to find out if you are a good candidate for veneers.

We can evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals, go over the pros and cons of porcelain vs composite veneers, and help you get started on your journey to the smile you’ve hoped for.

We are a dental practice with well-established roots in the Mount Lawley area. New owner, Dr James Roberts is excited to continue to serve the local community with high-quality dental care.