Benefits of Porcelain and Composite Resin Veneers
A veneer is a popular dental innovation that carries its function, benefit and promise in its name. Thin shields of porcelain or composite resin bonded to teeth provide a beautiful veneer that covers flaws, imperfections and discoloration, adding a look of healthy brilliance to your smile.
Veneers can also be used to refine the proportions of misshapen teeth, and even to hide moderate degrees of misalignment in the mouth. Teeth can be made longer for a more attractive look, or wider to fill gaps. In some cases this can be a more affordable alternative to orthodontic treatment.
Although a veneer can be applied to an individual tooth, patients commonly opt for several veneers to cover the upper front teeth that are most on display when speaking and smiling. Veneers look completely natural and add new strength to the tooth under the porcelain or composite resin covering. Advanced computer modeling allows Dr. Añonuevo to create veneers that are the ideal thickness for your teeth, and the perfect color match.
Comparing Porcelain and Composite Veneers
Veneers are not permanent, but they are exceptionally long-lasting. The porcelain variety will endure for at least a decade, and cases in which veneers last 20 years or more are not uncommon. Composite resin has a lifespan of about five to seven years.
Other differences between the two types of veneers include the fact that porcelain veneers require a slight reshaping of the teeth to accommodate the material and ensure a strong bond, while composite resin is applied directly to the existing tooth without the need to abrade away any surface enamel.
One consequence of the difference is that porcelain veneers will need to be replaced with a new set at the end of their lifespan, while composite resin can simply be removed at any time, and need not be replaced in five to seven years. Many patients believe porcelain veneers more closely resemble the translucent appearance of natural teeth. Porcelain veneers are also highly resistant to staining, while patients who receive composite resin veneers should watch their food choices, as discoloration happens more often with this material.
Dental Veneer Placement Details
Placement of veneers is a routine procedure done with local anesthetic. Porcelain veneers require the initial step of reshaping the tooth surface before the shields are cemented into place. For composite resin, Dr. Añonuevo applies a bonding material to the teeth and sculpts it into the desired shape. This is done precisely, layer by layer, and involves the use of a special high-intensity light to harden the composite material. The final step is to polish the composite resin to a high-wattage brilliance.
Composite resin veneers can be applied in a single appointment; porcelain veneers are fabricated by an off-site laboratory. Once the porcelain veneers are ready, patients return for attachment of the veneers to teeth.
If you would like to discuss your specific dental needs with a respected, trustworthy dentist in Charlotte, we invite you to book a consultation with Dr. Añonuevo. Please call or email Inspire Dentistry of the Carolinas today to make your appointment.