Two alternatives – Composite or porcelain veneers?

Dental veneers can either be produced out of the ceramic material porcelain (porcelain veneers) or a plastic mixture (composite veneers).

Porcelain veneers are thin ceramic layers which are glued to the tooth's front (picture), while composite veneers are made of plastic that is placed on the tooth in layers

Porcelain veneers are the most durable; they last for approx. 7-15 years. They stand against discolorations considerably better than composite veneers and provide the most natural result. They are also made to order in a special laboratory.

A composite veneer (plastic veneer) is produced by a dentist sculpting the material in thin layers onto the tooth which is an advantage since it can often be performed during a normal dentist appointment. In comparison with dental veneers the cost is substantially less but the short durability (2-5 years) can in the end result in a higher final cost.

For minor tooth damages (splintering etc) a normal composite repair is the best alternative since it is minimally invasive on the natural structure of the teeth.

« Introduction to porcelain veneers | The dental veneers procedure »