Dental veneers are one of the most trusted cosmetic dentistry options in Bryn Mawr for transforming and enhancing your smile. At Dillon Family Dentistry in Bryn Mawr, PA, Dental, we commonly hear patients say: “Which veneers are right for me, porcelain or composite”? It is important to know the difference to feel comfortable making a decision regarding your oral health and aesthetics.
Dental veneers are custom-made, thin shell coverings placed on the front surfaces of your teeth to repair chips, close gaps, correct staining, or restore worn enamel, to achieve a beautiful new smile.
1. The Power of Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are thin shells that are made of a ceramic material in a dedicated dental laboratory. Porcelain is a wonderful material that closely mimics the natural translucency of tooth enamel, giving veneers the most aesthetic appeal.
Porcelain is the gold standard for patients who want the best quality and longevity. Porcelain veneers are very strong, and Porcelain restorations are widely regarded as having the best long-term track record of any dental restoration. With proper care, porcelain veneers can last a minimum of 10 to 15 years or longer. Porcelain veneers resist stains and retain their bright color even when drinking coffee or other dark liquids.
While the porcelain veneers cost in Bryn Mawr may seem high at first, the excellent durability of porcelain veneers can lead to a better long-term investment. Porcelain veneers are considered to be an irreversible cosmetic treatment because they require very little enamel removal.
After the initial consultation, the entire treatment process will typically take two appointments.
2. Considering Composite Veneers
Composite veneers in Bryn Mawr are made from a tooth-colored resin material. Your dentist can place and shape composite veneers directly onto your tooth surface, possibly expediting the process compared to porcelain veneers; the procedure could even be completed in one visit.
The main advantages of composite veneers compared to porcelain include speed and cost. The initial veneer comparison with pricing in Bryn Mawr indicates that composite is the more economical choice.
On the downside, composite resin is not as durable as porcelain, and generally discolors faster, contributes to chipping, and wears sooner. These may need further maintenance down the line or may need to be replaced/supported sooner compared to porcelain.
Composite veneers do work effectively for minor corrections; however, the longevity of veneers in Bryn Mawr compared to ceramic is less.
Which Veneers Are Right for Me?
Selecting the right veneers is a matter of balancing your budget, cosmetic desires, and durability expectations.
- If you want the longest-lasting and most natural-looking option, with the best stain resistance, porcelain veneers are usually the best option for you, even with the higher upfront cost.
- If you are looking for a quick and affordable solution for minor imperfections, getting composite veneers is an excellent option for you.