Veneers are the perfect treatment for anyone who wants a beautiful smile, but are they a permanent solution? The answer depends on what materials are used in the veneers and the type of tooth preparation required in advance.
Most veneers are made from three materials: porcelain, composite, and ceramic. Each material has benefits and disadvantages.
Porcelain veneers
Porcelain veneers are the most popular type of veneer in cosmetic dentistry today.
Benefits of porcelain veneers:
- Porcelain is a non-toxic, biocompatible material that naturally adheres to your body’s DNA.
- It is more durable and more resistant to chipping and staining.
- Porcelain closely resembles the translucent shine of your natural teeth.
- It is a better option for people who have significant tooth damage, very crooked teeth or teeth with dark stains.
Disadvantages to porcelain veneers:
- Some porcelain veneers require removal of some of your tooth enamel.
- Porcelain is more expensive than other options.
Porcelain veneers require your natural teeth to be reshaped which makes them a permanent option. In adhering to your DNA, porcelain veneers can last 15 to 30 years.
Composite veneers
Composite veneers are made from resin to perfectly match the color of your teeth. They can be molded directly onto your teeth or made from a mold of your teeth.
Benefits of composite veneers
- Because composite veneers are molded directly onto your teeth, they take less time in the dentist’s chair.
- Composite veneers cost less than other options.
Disadvantages to composite veneers
- Enamel must be shaved off your teeth to accommodate composite veneers.
- Composites can be more prone to staining and chipping.
- They are less durable than other materials.
- Composite veneers don’t reflect light the way real teeth do.
The preparation work for composite veneers is permanent because your tooth enamel must be shaved off, yet, because composite veneers aren’t as durable as porcelain, they must be replaced after about eight years.
Emprethin (ultra thin, no prep) veneers
Ultra thin veneers are made of very thin compressed ceramic. They are a great choice for patients who want to correct chips in teeth, close gaps, and repair weakened enamel.
Benefits of ultra thin veneers
- Ultra thin veneers can be placed the same day and require little drilling or shaving before placement.
- They mimic the pearly opalescence of natural teeth.
- Ultra thin veneers are a good option for those who desire the effects of orthodontics.
- They can be easily repaired, replaced or removed.
Disadvantages of ultra thin veneers
- Ultra thin veneers can chip and fracture easily.
- They may not cover dark stains due to their thin design.
- Ill-fitting ultra thin veneers can cause gum problems.
Ultra thin veneers require few permanent changes to your tooth enamel, so they are not considered a permanent option, yet they can last up to 20 years if well cared for.
Read more about the different kinds of veneers.
If you are considering veneers to enhance your smile, work with the best. Dr. Sarah Frahm has completed rigorous post-doctoral training with the world’s leading dental pioneers to perfect her veneering technique. Book your next visit online or call to make an appointment at (831) 201-1904.
