Cosmetic Dentistry |6 min read

Composite Veneers Vs. Porcelain Veneers Explained

by Love Your Smile

Blonde woman looking back and smiling after getting porcelain veneers at Love Your Smile

Have you been researching veneers and wondered, “what’s the difference between composite veneers vs. porcelain veneers?”

Both types of veneers accomplish the same goal of enhancing the appearance of teeth with a whiter, brighter, and straighter smile.

So what’s the main difference?

The materials used for composite veneers and porcelain veneers are what distinguishes the two types of veneers. The materials affect the procedure, final result, durability, and veneer lifespan.

At Love Your Smile, we believe everyone deserves to have the smile they desire, and we’ll help you learn about the two different types of cosmetic dentistry veneers.

They’re an innovative solution to fixing smile flaws.

Veneers are the only cosmetic procedure with the ability to fix so many tooth imperfections at once instantly. The result is a beautiful, confident smile.

But did you know veneers can also restore a tooth’s function and prevent further damage when there’s a chip or crack?

As for misaligned teeth, veneers can quickly give a straighter and more attractive appearance without the need for orthodontics. While it can’t correct a bite like with braces, veneers can correct gaps and the appearance of crooked teeth.

It’s clear they do a lot!

Let’s go over the basics of veneers… This text opens the Colgate Veneers Article in a new tab …:

What are veneers?

Veneers are a cosmetic dentistry procedure to improve the look of a smile instantly. They alter the appearance of a tooth’s size, shape, and color.

Veneers fix:

  • Cracked or broken teeth
  • Discoloration and stains
  • Misaligned teeth
  • Misshapen teeth
  • Gaps in teeth

The two main types are porcelain veneers and composite veneers.

Porcelain veneers are completed using thin custom-made porcelain shells attached to the front of teeth.

They typically take two visits – one for the preparation and impression and a second for the final fitting.

Why are two visits required?

There’s more work required with porcelain veneers because they’re custom-made outside of the dentist’s office.

Let us explain the veneer visits:

The first part: A dentist preps the teeth, takes impressions, and a state-of-the-art dental lab creates life-like veneers.

While a patient waits for the final veneers, they wear temporary veneers to test their new smile.

Now the second part:

Once the porcelain veneers are ready, the patient has a final fitting, and the custom shells are safely bonded to the patient’s teeth.

Porcelain veneers require extra prep work to teeth because the thickness needs to look natural once the shell is bonded.

Composite veneers, on the other hand, require less prep work.

They can be completed in just one visit, depending on the extent of work. A color-matched resin is applied directly onto the tooth, and then it’s shaped, cured, and polished.

That’s it.

While composite veneers are completed much faster, they aren’t as durable and stain-resistant as porcelain veneers.

How long do veneers last?

Porcelain veneers can last 10-15 years, and composite veneers last about half of that time. The actual lifespan of your veneers will vary on several factors, including lifestyle habits and dental hygiene.

There are pros and cons of ceramic veneers and composite veneers.

While composite veneers may chip more easily, the good news is they’re repairable.

Whereas, if a porcelain veneer chips, it can’t be fixed and needs to be replaced.

The good news:

Porcelain is much stronger than composite resin and not as prone to chipping.

It’s important to note that because composite veneers are weaker, those with composite veneers need to be more careful with what they eat and may incur additional costs for repairs.

Remember to maintain proper oral care and regular dental visits with veneers. Your dentist can check the veneers’ integrity at each visit to make sure they’re in good shape.

How much are veneers?

The veneers cost depends on each treatment and the amount of work to be done. A single tooth can be fixed, or a full mouth can be transformed with veneers.

How much veneers cost also depends on the type of veneer chosen.

Porcelain veneers typically have a higher cost but last longer.

While composite veneers cost less but don’t last as long.

The lifespan of your veneers vs. cost can be considered to determine which is the better value.

As for aesthetics, porcelain veneers are very life-like because the material is translucent, and light reflects on them, similar to natural teeth.

While composite veneers look natural as well, the effect isn’t the same as porcelain. Composite is a more porous material, and to achieve a shiny appearance, the material must be polished.

There’s a lot to consider when comparing composite vs. porcelain veneers.

At the end of the day, it’s a discussion for you and your dentist.

Your cosmetic dentist can discuss your smile goals and budget to determine which veneer is the best option for you.

Get porcelain veneers in Seattle, WA.

Whether it’s a total smile makeover or a single tooth correction, porcelain veneers are one of the best ways to get a beautiful smile quickly and safely.

The procedure is fast, effective, and lasts for many years with proper dental care.

Maybe you’ve got a wedding coming up or a huge life event, and you want to improve the look of your smile. Or perhaps you’ve been dreaming of a celebrity smile for years and just haven’t found the time or courage to visit a cosmetic dentist.

Love Your Smile will work with you to find your one-of-a-kind treatment plan. Our goal is to create your happy and healthy smile – a smile you feel good in and love!

Together, we’ll look at your smile goals, budget, and timeline to decide which customized treatment is best for you.

If it’s your first time visiting a cosmetic dentist, here’s a guide on the different treatment options and what to expect.

We’re not just a cosmetic dentist. We offer comprehensive dental care all under one roof, and our services include:

Areas served include:

  • Downtown Seattle
  • Lake Union
  • Belltown

Schedule your visit today:

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