Most people have heard of porcelain veneers, but what about composite veneers? What are they? Do they offer the same kind of protection and aesthetic look as a porcelain veneer?

 

What is a Dental Veneer?

A dental veneer is a thin layer or shell of a tooth-colored material — either porcelain or a composite resin — that is used to cover the surface of a tooth in order to improve the tooth’s appearance, color, and shape. Veneers are used to correct a number of minor issues including spaces in between teeth, crooked or oddly shaped teeth, or permanently stained teeth. Veneers are used for cosmetic purposes only and are typically not used to correct major issues such as nerve issues, overbites, underbites, or jaw misalignment.

What is a Composite Veneer?

A composite veneer is an alternative to a porcelain veneer in that composite resin is used to form the veneer. In a composite veneer, the tooth-colored composite resin is used to form a dental veneer or covering over a tooth. Composite veneers have many advantages including cost and time.

Composite veneers are relatively inexpensive, and since some dental procedures are not covered by insurance, this type of veneer may be a viable option. If time is a factor, then a composite veneer may be the best choice for you. These types of veneers can be made and placed in one same-day visit, whereas a porcelain veneer will require a return installation appointment after the veneer is done being fabricated in a dental lab. Since the composite material is moldable, it can be easily shaped and applied by the dentist.

 

Composite Veneer Procedure

The procedure for receiving a composite veneer is relatively simple. First, the dentist will take away a thin layer of tooth structure in order to prep the tooth for the composite. Next, the tooth is etched in order to create a rough surface for the material to adhere to. After that, a liquid primer is applied in order to make the surface sticky. Next, the dentist will match the correct shade of composite to your existing tooth structure. Then, the material is cured and hardened using an ultraviolet light. Finally, the dentist will shape and smooth out the material in order to prevent soft tissue irritation of the lip, cheek, or gums.

 

The Benefits

Basically, the biggest advantages to having a composite veneer is that it is affordable, easy to install, requires minimal prep work to natural teeth, and can be removed and replaced as needed without much permanent alteration to the overall tooth structure.

 

Thinking about Composite Veneers? – Give us a call today

If you have questions about composite veneers and whether they will be a good fit for you, speak with the licensed dentists and caring, trained staff at Pasadena Dental today. Start the new year with a bright, healthy smile.