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When you’re looking into different dental veneers types, it can be helpful to understand the differences between the materials used, how each one is applied, and what to expect over time.
Whether you’re getting veneers for one tooth or a few, the type of veneer chosen will usually come down to the condition of the teeth being treated, the thickness of enamel, and how long they’re expected to last.
In this blog, we’ll cover the main types dental veneers types available, and how they differ from each other when it comes to the way they work and the results they can achieve.
Porcelain veneers
Porcelain veneers are often considered the more long-term option of the dental veneers types, mostly because of the way they’re fabricated and applied.
These are custom-made from a strong material – at Oasis, we only use high-quality, durable porcelain. Once they’ve been created to fit the patient’s tooth, they’re bonded to the front surface using a specialised dental adhesive.
In terms of preparation, porcelain veneers usually require some of the natural tooth enamel to be removed. This is done to make space for the veneer so it doesn’t sit too far forward once it’s bonded. The amount removed can vary depending on the patient’s tooth shape, but it’s usually minimal, just enough to create an even surface. Once the enamel is reduced, a mould of the teeth is taken, and temporary veneers are placed until the final ones are ready.
One of the pros of porcelain veneers is that they are known for being more resistant to discolouration from foods or drinks. They also tend to be the more durable option, often lasting around 10 to 15 years when maintained properly. However, if they crack or become damaged, they can’t be repaired – they’ll need to be replaced.
Composite veneers or composite bonding
Composite veneers are another of the main dental veneers types, but they’re applied differently to the porcelain type.
Also called composite bonding, these are built up directly on the tooth using a tooth-coloured resin. The dentist will apply the resin in layers and shape it to the right size and contour before hardening it with a curing light.
This type of veneer generally involves less enamel removal than porcelain, and in some cases, there may be no need for reduction at all. It’s because of this that composite veneers are sometimes referred to as reversible, although that depends on whether any tooth structure is removed during the process.
While a pro of composite bonding is the more simplified application process, a possible con – depending on your personal needs and goals – is that composite resin is more porous than porcelain, which means it’s more prone to discolouration over time.
Composite veneers also don’t tend to last as long as porcelain veneers, with an average lifespan of around five to seven years. That being said, if they do chip or become damaged, they can usually be repaired without needing to replace the entire veneer.
They can be a practical option for minor cosmetic corrections or when a more temporary solution is needed. The treatment can often be completed in a single visit, depending on how many veneers are being applied.
Choosing between porcelain veneers and composite bonding
The decision around which dental veneers types are suitable for you will usually come down to the condition of your natural teeth and what the veneers need to do.
If your teeth are worn down, unevenly spaced, or discoloured, porcelain is generally chosen for its ability to cover these issues more consistently. It also tends to have much better durability.
Composite, on the other hand, may be more suited to less extensive issues or cases where a quicker and more cost-effective approach is needed. While the resin doesn’t last as long, it does allow for adjustments and repairs without replacing the whole veneer, which can be helpful over time.
Overall, the physical differences between the two types come down to the way each one is applied, the extent of enamel removal, how they interact with the underlying tooth, and how long they’re likely to last.
What to expect from maintenance and lifespan
Regardless of the dental veneer types chosen, maintenance will always have some level of influence in how long they last.
Brushing and flossing as normal is essential, but patients are usually advised to use non-abrasive toothpaste and to avoid biting directly into hard foods. Grinding or clenching the teeth at night can also increase the risk of damage, so a night guard may be also recommended in some cases.
Porcelain veneers tend to remain their quality over time compared to composite, but both types can still chip or come loose if too much pressure is applied. Regular check-ups are important to make sure the margins of the veneers are still sealed and that no decay is forming at the edges.
Even though veneers are stain-resistant to a degree, they can still pick up some discolouration over the years. This is especially true for composite, and while it can sometimes be polished, it usually won’t return to its original shade once it’s discoloured.
When replacements are needed, it’s not uncommon for the new veneer to be slightly adjusted or reshaped to account for changes in the surrounding teeth or bite. If any of these adjustments are needed, they can typically be performed during your follow-up visits.
Choose between porcelain veneers and composite bonding at Oasis Dental Studio in the Gold Coast, Brisbane, Melbourne or Pottsville
If you need help deciding between the two types of veneers, a consultation with an experienced cosmetic dentist at Oasis Dental Studio can help.
During your consultation, one of our cosmetic dentists will assess the condition of your teeth, discuss your aesthetic concerns, and outline your options. They can provide advice based on what may work best for your teeth, and allow you to make an informed decision on your preferred type of treatment option.
Please feel free to get in touch with our team to book your consultation on the Gold Coast, or in our Brisbane (West End), Melbourne (Brighton) or Pottsville locations.
