When it comes to hiding superficial dental imperfections, porcelain veneers offer the most natural and durable solution. Pressed ceramic veneers are thicker and more durable than other types of veneers, but they are not as stain resistant and may need to be replaced in a few years. Porcelain veneers are designed to look like natural teeth and are very sturdy. They can last more than a decade before needing to be replaced or repaired, and they are ideal for masking chips and cracks in the enamel, creating the illusion of even teeth and enhancing the smile.
Ceramic veneers are saddle-shaped and adhere to the tooth, but they require that part of the tooth structure be removed for a natural fit. They can be applied in a single visit and can create a very natural looking result, but they wear out under pressure and are not as stain resistant as porcelain veneers. Porcelain is more resistant to stains and chipping, does not wear out under pressure, is color stable and better aesthetically. Porcelain can fill much larger spaces than composite; therefore, porcelain veneers can be used in any situation where dental veneers are a viable treatment option.
Ceramic veneers also do a great job, but are more limited in their natural look, even after polishing. To create stacked ceramic veneers, laboratory ceramists will place porcelain materials by hand to create a restoration that closely matches the color, size, shape and translucency of your natural teeth. Most ceramic veneers last between 5 and 7 years, while porcelain veneers can last 10 to 15 years if the patient performs the correct oral care. Economic restoration on aesthetic ceramic chair or CEREC is a type of veneer that is carried out while the patient is in the chair.
Dental veneers are thin layers of material (porcelain or composite) that are custom-made to fit teeth and improve their overall color, shape and appearance. Investing in composite veneers may offer immediate benefits, but you'll likely need to replace them in a few years. Porcelain veneers are more expensive (almost twice as much as composite veneers) and need more time to finish. We'll talk to you about whether you're a good candidate for ceramic veneers, as well as your dental problems and goals, before designing your unique treatment plan. Porcelain veneers offer the greatest resemblance to natural teeth when it comes to translucency.
If you have significant discoloration or spacing issues, you may not be able to deal with ceramic veneers as they would be with porcelain. When considering which type of veneer is best for you, it's important to consider your budget, timeline and desired outcome. Porcelain veneers offer the most natural look and durability but require more time and money than composite veneers. Ceramic veneers offer an immediate solution at a lower cost but may need to be replaced sooner.