What are some of the differences between composite veneers or porcelain veneers? Which should I get? Thx Marie

Marie – Indirect composite veneers are based on impressions of your teeth that a dentists takes and sends to a laboratory to craft. Direct composite veneers, placed and hand sculpted by a dentist, can be completed in one visit. Composite dental resin is applied in layers to achieve natural color and translucency for your teeth. Both indirect and direct composite veneers can be lifelike and beautiful, but require artistic talent from a skilled cosmetic dentist.

Composite veneers last four to eight years, but they wear and stain or chip with time. The old composite can be removed and replaced. They cost less than porcelain veneers.

Porcelain veneers are made by a ceramist, based on impressions of your teeth. A cosmetic dentist will submit the impressions, a model of your smile makeover, and instructions regarding tooth shade to the ceramist. You will receive temporary veneers to try in before the final veneers are made by the ceramist.

Porcelain veneers can last 15 to 20 years, depending on how well you take care of them. Porcelain veneers are chip and stain resistant. Frequently, the natural teeth are minimally prepared before porcelain veneers are placed, which requires removing a slight small amount of tooth structure to prevent the teeth from looking bulky after the veneers are placed over them.

We recommend that you schedule an appointment with an accredited cosmetic dentist. He or she will examine your teeth and let you know the results you can expect from composite veneers, as well as porcelain veneers.

This post is sponsored by Lowell cosmetic dentist Dr. Michael Szarek.