Porcelain or composite veneers?

Anyone who wants to change the colour, length or shape of their front teeth usually meets two options: porcelain veneers and composite veneers. Both are a thin layer added to the front surface of the tooth, but the materials, the way they are made and the way they age are different.

In a sentence each

A porcelain veneer is a thin shell of glass ceramic, made in a laboratory and bonded to the tooth with special adhesives. A composite veneer is tooth-coloured filling material sculpted directly on the tooth, layer by layer.

Light and colour

Porcelain lets light through and reflects it much like natural enamel, and it keeps its surface gloss and colour for a long time. Composite can give a very good result too, but over time it can take up stains from coffee, tea and smoking and lose some of its shine. Regular polishing narrows the gap.

How the tooth is touched

Composite can often be applied without touching the tooth, or touching it very little. With porcelain veneers, preparation usually stays within the enamel; in suitable cases no preparation is needed at all.

Where a tooth is prepared, the step cannot be undone. That is why the decision is made after a trial, with the design tried in the mouth in a temporary material.

Time and process

Composite veneers are usually finished in a single visit. Porcelain veneers involve impressions, a trial and bonding; the process usually takes a few appointments and one to three weeks.

Durability and repair

Porcelain resists wear and staining better. Composite, on the other hand, is easy to repair in the mouth if it chips or wears. The lifespan of both depends on care, habits and the bite. If you clench or grind your teeth, a night guard protects veneers of either kind.

Which one for whom?

• Porcelain stands out for teeth that do not respond to whitening, or whose shape will change noticeably.
• Composite is a good start for small gaps, chipped edges, or changes you would like to try without touching the tooth.
• If the teeth are clearly misaligned, orthodontics first may give a better result while asking less of the teeth.

A note on cost

Composite is usually more economical; porcelain costs more at the start because of laboratory work and material. When comparing, look beyond the first cost to the polishing and renewal each option will need over time.

The decision

The right choice is made together at the examination, according to the condition of your teeth, your habits and your expectations. A trial lets you see the result of either option in advance.