Introduction
Veneers are one of the most frequently chosen solutions in cosmetic dentistry. They make it possible to improve the shape, colour and proportion of teeth without extensive prosthetic interventions. The choice between porcelain versus composite veneers should be conscious and based on an analysis of not only the aesthetic effect, but also durability, biocompatibility and user comfort.
At Unident Union, we help patients make a decision based on their individual aesthetic, functional and budgetary needs and expectations.
Porcelain veneers - characteristics
Porcelain veneers are made from high-quality dental ceramics and designed individually for each patient. Their greatest advantage is the perfect reproduction of the optical properties of natural enamel, which translates into exceptional aesthetics.
Features:
- Shelf life: 10-20 years
- Resistance to staining: very high
- Aesthetics: high gloss, translucent effect
- Biocompatibility: perfect integration into periodontal tissue
- Abrasion: minimal
- Price: higher manufacturing cost (compensated by durability)
Porcelain veneers are the most common choice for waiting patients superior aesthetics and predictability of effect for many years to come.
Composite veneers - characteristics
Composite veneers are made from a material that is also used in aesthetic fillings. They can be made directly in the mouth or indirectly in the laboratory.
Features:
- Shelf life: 2-5 years (with good hygiene)
- Resistance to staining: moderate
- Aesthetics: good, but less natural than ceramics
- Biocompatibility: good
- Abrasiveness: higher than porcelain
- Price: lower cost of implementation
This solution may be suitable for patients expecting a rapid aesthetic improvement, e.g. before an important event, but without the need for a long-term effect.
Comparison of veneers - table of differences
| Criterion | Porcelain | Composite |
|---|---|---|
| Sustainability | 10-20 years | 2-5 years |
| Aesthetics | Very high | Moderate |
| Resistance to discolouration | Very high | Limited |
| Mechanical strength | High | Moderate |
| Abrasiveness | Minimum | Higher |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Execution time | 2-3 visits | 1-2 visits |
| Possibility of adjustment after time | Limited | Easy correction |
| Purpose | Long-term | Short-term or temporary |
When to choose porcelain veneers?
- You expect durability and high resistance to staining
- You want the closest possible reproduction of natural teeth
- Veneers are meant to be a long-term solution
- You want to have full control over aesthetics - shape, colour, length of teeth
When to choose composite veneers?
- Need a quick aesthetic improvement
- You have a limited budget
- Veneers are intended to serve a temporary function
- You do not have profound changes in your enamel structure or bite
At Unident Union - decision preceded by analysis
In our clinic, the choice of veneer type is not random. Each treatment is preceded by detailed aesthetic and functional analysis, as well as a discussion about the patient's expectations.
Thanks to the fitting (mock-up/wax-up), digital scans and work with renowned laboratories, the patient can see the real effect even before treatment begins.
