May 25, 2023
If you find that you feel self-conscious about your smile because of cracks, chips, dark stains, or even gaps between one or more teeth, it might be time to consider cosmetic dentistry as an option. Nowadays, one of the most versatile and effective solutions for dental flaws are veneers. When it comes to these thin shells that are adhered to the front of the affected teeth, you have options as far as which materials are used to craft them. Keep reading about the different types of dental veneers and how to know which one is right for your smile transformation.
Porcelain Veneers
Here are a couple of the benefits and facts about porcelain veneers:
A “Hollywood Smile”
Known as the more “traditional veneers,” these paper-thin shells are a testament to their name. Made of strong but thin ceramic, they became especially popular amongst celebrities such as Tom Cruise, Miley Cyrus, Zac Efron, Demi Moore, and many others as a way to get a beautiful “Hollywood smile.”
Natural Look and Feel
Many people choose to go with porcelain veneers because the material so closely mimics the look and feel of their natural teeth. Your dentist can also color-match the veneers to make sure they blend in perfectly with the rest of your teeth.
Life-Long Commitment
One very important thing to note about porcelain veneers is that they are a permanent commitment because of the fact that a very small amount of the natural tooth will need to be sanded down to ensure that the veneers lay flat on the surface of the tooth. While they will eventually need to be replaced every 10 – 20 years by new veneers, you’ll have to wear them for the remainder of your life.
Composite Veneers
Now that you know a bit more about porcelain veneers, check out the advantages and details of composite veneers:
Less Invasive Procedure
Unlike their counterparts, composite veneers do not require the natural tooth to be altered. Much like the bonding process, your dentist will use a material made of a tooth-colored resin that they mold and smooth out in thin layers on top of the affected teeth, making them look as good as new.
Quicker Process
When it comes to any type of dental bonding, including composite veneers, the process typically can be done in one sitting at your dentist’s office. They won’t need to be crafted in a lab, and you won’t have to wear temporary prosthetics in the interim.
Vulnerability
Although they can last up to 10 years if cared for properly, it’s important to understand that composite resin is more susceptible to breakage and staining than porcelain. This could mean additional costs due to damage.
When making the decision between composite and porcelain veneers, the most important step you can take is to talk with your dentist about which option will best suit you. There may be certain aspects of your lifestyle that you’ll want to take into consideration, such as age, level of involvement in contact sports, diet, and anything else your dentist recommends you factor in.
About the Author
If you’re wanting the highest quality of cosmetic dental treatment in Mesa, then look further than Dental Innovations. Dr. Richard Baker and Dr. Brett Barlow are passionate about making sure that each of their patients has the opportunity to have the smiles of their dreams. With years of experience in dental veneer treatment, they take the quality of the procedure up a level from other dental practices. Are you ready for a smile transformation? Request a consultation online or call (480) 573-6468.