Whether you are looking to repair minor dental damage or simply enjoy a younger, healthier smile, veneers may be the solution. Among the most popular cosmetic dentistry treatments, veneers cover the front surface of teeth. They can mask blemishes and even reshape your teeth for a dramatic transformation.
At Chisholm Trail Smile Center, Dr. Matthew Bridges offers both porcelain and composite veneers. Each option has advantages and disadvantages. One may be more appropriate for your oral health and personal goals. At your consultation, Dr. Bridges will help you select the best solution for you.
Contact our Duncan, OK, office to schedule an appointment.
Porcelain vs. Composite Veneers
Porcelain veneers are thin shells. They are fabricated off-site to meet Dr. Bridges specifications and then bonded directly onto teeth. If you choose porcelain, Dr. Bridges will need to prep your teeth, reshaping them and removing a small amount of enamel.
Composite veneers are made of a soft dental resin, applied directly to teeth. If you select this option, Dr. Bridges will smooth and sculpt the resin. He will use it to cover blemishes and fill in small gaps, cracks, or chips. Then he will use a curing light to harden the resin before giving it a polish.
The Advantages of Porcelain
Porcelain veneers are slightly more realistic than composite. Although both will match the color of your teeth, porcelain is somewhat translucent. This makes it sparkle and shine more like natural tooth enamel.
Porcelain veneers also tend to last longer than composite. Research shows that 90 to 95% are still functional and aesthetically suitable 10 years after placement. On the other hand, composite veneers last, on average, 5 to 7 years.
The Advantages of Composite
One of the biggest advantages of composite is that the procedure is reversible. Dr. Bridges will not need to remove any dental enamel. If the veneer comes off or is damaged, you don’t necessarily need to replace it (although the look of your smile will be affected).
Budget is another factor. Composite veneers cost less than porcelain. However, it’s important to weigh the immediate cost against the long-term investment. Since you will likely want new composite veneers later down the road, porcelain veneers may cost you less over the years.
Considering Your Oral Health
Of course, your oral health will also play a big role in your decision. If you want to enhance a tooth that already has a filling or existing decay, you will likely need a composite veneer. Damaged teeth typically cannot support dental porcelain. Similarly, if you have sustained enamel erosion, you may not have enough remaining tissue for the preparation process. In these cases, composite veneers are also a more suitable choice.
Schedule a Cosmetic Consultation
No matter which type of veneers you select, you will enjoy stunning and lifelike results. Contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center to book your appointment.
Get in touch via our website or give us a call at 580-255-4880.
