Composite Veneers
Composite Veneers
Composite veneers are a popular treatment option for those seeking a minimally invasive, affordable cosmetic solution to common dental issues such as discolouration, minor chips, gaps, and slightly misaligned teeth.
What are Composite Veneers?
Composite veneers (also commonly referred to as ‘resin veneers’) are a type of dental veneer made from composite resin, a material that can be shaped and bonded directly onto the front surface of the teeth. They are designed to enhance the appearance of teeth by improving their colour, shape, size, and alignment.
What is the Process of Getting Composite Veneers?
Getting resin veneers is a relatively straightforward process and typically involves one or two visits to the dentist.
Following your initial consultation/assessment, the dentist will determine, with you, how many veneers are recommended/required for your case. Once your treatment plan has been confirmed, the first (and biggest) appointment will be for the placement of the composite veneers.
Generally, composite veneers are considered ‘prep-less’ veneers. However, there are cases where a small amount of enamel may need to be removed from the tooth’s surface to ensure your desired outcome can be achieved. This can be common in cases with heavily crowded teeth.
The resin material is applied and intricately layered and shaped to the tooth’s surface. Once all of the composite resin has been added to the tooth, your dentist will proceed with filing, shaping, and polishing the composite to achieve the desired shape and size and a final polish to create a natural-looking lustre and shine.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Composite Veneers?
Resin veneers are ideal for addressing minor cosmetic issues, such as small chips, discolouration, or slightly misaligned teeth. They are best suited for patients with generally healthy teeth and gums and those seeking a more affordable and less invasive alternative to porcelain veneers.
Advantages of Composite Resin Veneers
Cost-Effectiveness
Resin veneers are typically more affordable than other options, such as porcelain. This makes them an attractive treatment option for individuals looking to enhance their smile without a significant financial investment.
Quick Procedure Time
Aesthetic Improvements
Composite Veneers vs. Porcelain Veneers
While both composite and porcelain veneers are great options for improving the appearance of your smile, they differ in terms of materials and longevity. Porcelain veneers are more durable and resistant to staining and discolouration; however, they are the more expensive option and require removing some of your natural tooth structure/enamel.
Composite resin veneers, while less durable, are more affordable and involve a less invasive process.
Durability and Maintenance
Composite veneers are less durable than porcelain veneers and may require touch-ups or replacements after several years of wear. However, with proper care, such as good oral hygiene and avoiding hard or sticky foods, resin veneers can last 5-7 years.
When to Choose Resin Over Porcelain
Composite veneers may be the better option for individuals looking for a less expensive, faster, and more conservative treatment option. If you have minor cosmetic issues and prefer a more budget-friendly solution, resin veneers could be ideal. However, if you’re seeking a more long-lasting, natural-looking and durable option, porcelain veneers will be the gold standard for cosmetic smile enhancements.
FAQs
Caring for composite veneers is similar to maintaining your natural teeth. Attending regular dental check-ups and cleaning, good oral hygiene habits (brushing and flossing daily), avoiding biting on hard objects (biting fingernails, opening bottles, eating hard/chewy lollies i.e. minties), and limiting foods and drinks with heavy colouring, will all help to maintain the longevity and condition of your composite veneers.
Yes! One advantage of composite veneers is that they can be easily repaired if they chip or wear down over time. As a resin-filling material, adding more material or completely replacing the existing veneer resin during a regular appointment is relatively straightforward.
Yes, composite veneers can stain over time, especially with exposure to dark-coloured foods and beverages such as coffee, tea, and red wine. However, regular cleaning and avoiding stain-causing foods can help minimise discolouration.
Composite veneers require minimal tooth preparation, meaning only a small amount of enamel is removed. This makes them less invasive than other cosmetic options, and they do not permanently damage your natural teeth.
Composite veneers typically last 3 to 7 years, depending on how well they are cared for, oral hygiene habits and lifestyle. While they are less durable than porcelain veneers, they can be easily polished, repaired or replaced if they become discoloured, damaged or worn down over time.