What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are thin, custom-made dental restorations placed over the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. Common types include porcelain veneers and composite veneers.
Veneers are primarily a cosmetic dental treatment and may help improve the appearance of:
- Discoloured or stained teeth
- Chipped or worn teeth
- Minor cracks or irregularities
- Gaps between teeth
- Uneven or misshapen teeth
What Is the Difference Between Porcelain and Composite Veneers?
| Porcelain Veneers | Composite Veneers | |
| Material | Dental porcelain | Tooth-coloured composite resin |
| How they are made | Custom-made by a dental laboratory to fit the tooth | Applied and shaped directly on the tooth |
| Appearance | Natural-looking with a smooth, translucent appearance | Natural-looking and can be colour-matched to the teeth |
| Stain resistance | Generally more resistant to staining | More susceptible to staining over time |
| Durability | Generally more resistant to wear | More susceptible to wear over time |
| Treatment time | Usually requires more than one appointment | May be completed in fewer appointments, depending on the case |
Which Type of Veneer Is Right for Me?
Both porcelain and composite veneers have different benefits and considerations. Your dentist will assess your teeth, bite, smile goals, and oral health to determine which option may be appropriate for you.
How Do Dental Veneers Improve Your Smile?
Veneers cover the visible front surface of the tooth and can help improve its colour, shape, size, and overall appearance. Your dentist will assess your teeth and discuss whether veneers are suitable for your needs.
Veneers vs. Dental Crowns
A dental veneer mainly covers the front surface of a tooth and is primarily used to improve its appearance.
A dental crown covers the entire visible portion of a tooth and may be recommended when a tooth needs additional strength, support, or protection.
Your dentist will consider the condition of your tooth, your oral health, and your treatment goals when determining whether a veneer or dental crown is more appropriate.
