What Types of Materials Are Used for Dental Veneers?

Did you know that dental offices and laboratories make dental veneers from more than one material? They do. While these materials make great choices, one has some advantages over the other. If you want beautiful teeth and a gorgeous smile, take time to learn more about this procedure.

Why dental veneers?

The most common reason why people choose dental veneers over crowns and bonding has to do with how natural these look. Sometimes, a dentist has veneers made in the office. Other times, a laboratory crafts them using a mold made of the patient’s teeth. Also, the dentist who applies them uses a file to shape them. As a result, these thin layers of material look and feel completely natural. At the same time, they enhance a person’s smile.

Composite resin

One of the materials used to make dental veneers is composite resin. This was one of the initial materials. Because it still works quite well, dentists offer it. Typically, veneers made of composite resin last approximately eight years. However, as with all materials, it is imperative for the patient to care for them properly. Otherwise, one or more could break or yellow.

The primary reason so many people choose resin over porcelain has to do with the price. Comparatively, these cost about 50 percent less than dental veneers made of porcelain. Considering that most insurance policies do not cover this treatment, that makes a big difference. Another advantage is that often, a professional can make composite resin veneers while the patient waits. That means enjoying a one-day procedure.

Once applied, the dentist shapes and sculpts the teeth based on each patient. Then, using high-intensity light, the resin bonds to the enamel. To complete the job, the dentist polishes the dental veneers, giving them a beautiful yet natural sheen. When complete, the patient goes home looking and feeling great.

Porcelain

While porcelain dental veneers are more expensive, they also look even more natural. The one downside is a dentist sends a mold of the patient’s mouth to an offside dental laboratory. There, a professional makes the veneers, which takes roughly two weeks. However, porcelain is much stronger than composite resin. For that reason, these typically last between 15 years or longer. In comparison, those made from a composite resin can last up to 10 years.

For people who want beautiful, white teeth that look like their own, most dentists recommend porcelain dental veneers. With a translucent quality, these look amazing. Also, these veneers do not chip or stain as easily as composite resin. If someone is willing to wait a short amount of time, it is worth going this route.

Deciding on the right ones

Fortunately, you do not have to decide on which dental veneers to choose alone. Instead, you can work with your dentist. Together, you can come up with the right solution. Either way, both are good options for hiding cracked, stained or misaligned teeth. It even seals gaps between teeth. Stop feeling self-conscious about the way your teeth look. Consult with a dental professional today.

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