Composite vs. Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are a versatile cosmetic dentistry treatment that allows people to enhance the appearance of their smile by concealing mild to moderate cosmetic flaws. Porcelain veneers improve the size, shape, and color of the teeth while hiding imperfections like chips, cracks, fractures, and minor misalignment problems.
When it comes to porcelain veneers, there are some choices to consider, one of which is composite vs. porcelain veneers. Here, Dr. Edward Narcisi goes over the key differences regarding these two types of veneers, so that his patients from Monroeville, PA, Pittsburgh, PA, and surrounding areas can choose the restoration that is most beneficial for their unique needs and desires.
Composite vs. Porcelain: Materials
Both composite and porcelain veneers are thin, tooth-shaped shells that affix to the facial surface of the natural teeth. However, the material used to make composite veneers is resin, while porcelain veneers are made from porcelain.
Composite vs. Porcelain: Treatment Timeline
Composite veneers are applied directly to the teeth, so treatment generally takes just a single dental appointment. The dentist selects a resin that closely matches the color of the natural teeth, applies and shapes the resin to conceal aesthetic blemishes, and then cures the resin so that it is bonded to the teeth.
Traditionally, porcelain veneers require a longer treatment timeline. Porcelain veneers are fabricated in a dental laboratory and are then bonded to the natural teeth once complete. Treatment usually requires two dental appointments scheduled several weeks apart. However, at his Monroeville dental practice, Dr. Narcisi is able to offer same-day porcelain veneers. Using CEREC® technology, he can design and fabricate porcelain veneers in-office while the patient waits, making the treatment timeline for porcelain veneers the same as that for composite veneers.
Composite vs. Porcelain: Durability
Porcelain is a delicate material, so most people might assume that composite veneers are more durable than porcelain veneers. In fact, the opposite is true. Once porcelain veneers are bonded to the teeth, they can withstand a great deal of force and pressure. With proper care, porcelain veneers can easily last between 10 and 15 years. In comparison, composite veneers usually last between four and eight years.
Composite vs. Porcelain: Aesthetics
Aesthetics is another area where porcelain veneers offer a clear advantage over composite veneers. Although composite veneers are attractive, they do not look quite as natural as porcelain veneers. Porcelain veneers are translucent, so they reflect light the same way the natural teeth do. Another aesthetic advantage is that porcelain veneers are resistant to staining, whereas composite veneers can stain like tooth enamel.
Composite vs. Porcelain: Cost
The initial cost of composite veneers is significantly lower than the cost of porcelain veneers. However, it is important to consider the cost of each treatment long-term. Since composite veneers are not as durable as porcelain veneers, they may require more frequent repair or replacement. Taking this into consideration, the costs of porcelain and composite veneers are pretty similar in the long-term.
Contact the Center for Dental Excellence
Dr. Edward Narcisi is proud to offer attractive, durable, same-day porcelain veneers at his dental practice. If you are interested in enhancing the appearance of your smile and would like to learn more about porcelain veneers treatment, we invite you to send us a message online, or call (412) 373-9447 and schedule an appointment.
