From cosmetic corrections to smile makeovers, dental veneers can be an excellent option for patients looking to improve their smile and feel more confident about the appearance of their teeth.

Yet many patients have questions about which type of veneer might be the best option for them. In this guide, we briefly cover the main differences between composite resin veneers and porcelain veneers.

If you have additional questions or would like to find out if you”re a good candidate for veneers, contact your local dentist and connect with a team who is passionate about helping you look and feel your best.

What Are Veneers?

Veneers are custom-fabricated thin tiles ” that fit over the forward-facing surface of your teeth. The end result is an aesthetically pleasing appearance that looks picture perfect.

When it comes to veneers, you have two main options: composite resin veneers and porcelain veneers.

Composite Resin Veneers

These are made from a resin custom-coloured to match the shade of your natural teeth or to a shade you desire. For those familiar, this is the same type of resin material used for tooth bonding.

Porcelain Veneers

As the name suggests, this type of veneer is made from medical-grade porcelain, custom-fitted for a comfortable and perfect fit. Each type of veneer has its own unique set of pros and cons. Below we’ll explore the major differences.

Composite Resin Veneers: the pros and cons

Pros of Composite Resin Veneers

• Affordability: this type of veneer is often lower in cost, making them a more affordable option for budget-conscious patients.
• Faster: The application process can be completed in the same visit for “direct veneers”.
• Versatile: Effective in covering up a broad range of aesthetic issues, including but not limited to severe discolouration or stains, misshapen or broken teeth, and more.

Cons of Composite Resin Veneers

• Durability: Composite resin is generally considered weaker than porcelain and has a higher chance of damage, such as chipping, over time.
• Replacement: May require more frequent replacement as compared to porcelain.

Porcelain Veneers: the pros and cons

Pros of Porcelain Veneers

• Durability: Highly durable, lasting longer than composite resin in most cases.
• Appearance: Considered the aesthetically superior option, porcelain looks more natural. It’s what the stars have, to give them that “Hollywood smile”.
• Results: Custom fabricated porcelain veneers may offer better results, especially for those with severely ill-positioned or stained teeth.

Cons of Porcelain Veneers

• Cost: Porcelain is a more expensive material.
• Time: Requires more than one dental visit to take a mould, fabricate a custom veneer, and bond it in place. However, depending on your situation, we may be able to use CEREC digital technology to fabricate your veneers right here in our office.

Which Type of Veneer Is Right for You?

When you come in for your FREE smile assessment, we’ll help you determine the right fit for your unique situation and goals. Make an appointment today and get the help you need, and regain the confidence you once had in your smile.

How Long Do Veneers Last?

A nice smile can improve your overall appearance. One popular option for cosmetic dental treatment is dental veneers. Veneers can cover imperfections in your teeth, and transform your smile.

With proper care, porcelain veneers can last 10 years or even longer. In contrast, composite resin veneers generally last between 2 and 5 years. This is one reason many people prefer porcelain veneers.

For veneers to last as long as possible, only a little extra care is necessary. Brush and floss the same as you care for your natural teeth. As a veneer doesn’t cover the entire tooth, tooth decay can occur if you don’t practice good oral hygiene. You also don’t want to risk developing gum disease.

Damage and Stains

Although porcelain is stronger and more durable than composite resin, care should be taken to not damage either type of veneer. Avoid hard foods that can chip or break your new dental work. Don’t use tobacco products. While staining doesn’t occur as easily with porcelain veneers, it can occur if you’re not careful with your diet. Whether you choose porcelain or composite resin, avoid tomato sauce, berries, cola, black coffee and tea, and other dark products that can cause stains.

If your veneer does become damaged, you should consult with your dentist as soon as possible. In some cases veneers can be repaired. However, with improvements in dental technology every year, it can be better to replace a veneer instead of repairing it. If your veneer chips, breaks, or falls off, Dr. Yap can determine which approach is best.

These few basic cautions shouldn’t deter you from choosing dental veneers. Veneers are useful for a variety of dental issues. They’re relatively inexpensive, and can help you achieve a perfect smile. Veneers don’t damage teeth, and can actually protect your teeth from damage. When you have a veneer on a tooth, the tooth will be stronger. It only takes sensible precautions for you to enjoy your new dental work for many years.

It’s an easy process to obtain a dental veneer. When you want the nicest smile, ask for a consultation with Dr. Yap. We’ll be glad to answer your questions, and schedule an appointment for your dental work.

How To Choose A Cosmetic Dentist

When you need the services of a cosmetic dentist, you’ll want to carefully consider several aspects to ensure you get the best possible result for your situation.

Experience

You’ll want someone who’s experienced. It’s helpful to check case studies, but there are special benefits to reviews from former patients. People who’ve had cosmetic dental treatments enjoy sharing their experiences. You’ll discover that Dr. Yap and the team have many satisfied patients.

Reviews

You can look at reviews as recommendations from people you’ve never met. However, there are additional approaches that’ll give you confidence in our dental team. A simple approach is to browse our website. Although some cosmetic dentists only offer one or two procedures, we offer a whole suite of cosmetic dental services. Whether it’s for teeth whitening, teeth straightening, or dental implants, all of your family members and friends can come to see Dr. Yap for their cosmetic dental needs.

Consultation with the Dentist

You’ll also want to take a third approach. Nothing inspires confidence quite like an initial consultation. The opportunity to meet your new dentist in person is only one important feature. You’ll also learn we have the most modern equipment, so you can have the best results. You’ll see our office is nice and comfortable, perfect for even the most nervous patients. The friendly, caring attitude of our staff will help you feel at ease.

During your consultation, you can learn about the procedure you’re considering, and whether there are any other options. Before we schedule your procedure, you’ll know it’s right for you. Equally important, you’ll know you’ve chosen a cosmetic dentist who cares about you, takes your concerns seriously, and can achieve the results you’re hoping for with your cosmetic procedure.

If you don’t have a family member or friend who can recommend a cosmetic dentist, you don’t need to take any risks with your health or your appearance. You can start with these easy tips, and be delighted with the results.

Now you know how to choose a dentist, browse our website and learn more about Dr. Yap. You’ll see Dr. Yap and the entire team can meet your needs. You can call for an appointment at your convenience, and you’ll know you’ve made the right choice as soon as you arrive at our office.

What is the Difference Between a General and a Cosmetic Dentist?

General dentists and cosmetic dentists usually provide two different types of dental services.

General Dentists

A general dentist is likely to provide preventative dental services and procedures that correct certain dental issues.

Oral health is a general dentist’s priority. Some common examples include:

• Root canal work.
• Extracting decayed teeth.
• Filling cavities.

While a general dentist’s focus is on dental health, they may also offer white tooth fillings to improve a patient’s smile.

Cosmetic Dentistry

A cosmetic dentist is concerned about your teeth and your smile as these issues are connected to your appearance. Your dentist may do procedures such as:

• Complete smile makeovers.
• Porcelain veneers.
• Teeth whitening.

Some cosmetic procedures can actually benefit your oral health, but the main purpose is to help you look your best.

Cosmetic treatments cannot be done unless teeth are healthy and strong. If you have problems with your teeth or gums, you will need general dentistry services before you schedule an appointment for cosmetic work. However, this does not necessarily mean you must visit two different dentists.

Dr. Yap offers general dental work as well as cosmetic dental work. If you need a tooth extraction or another basic procedure, it can be done at our local Innaloo office. Dr. Yap also offers emergency dental services, although many cosmetic dentists do not.

How do you know which type of dentist is right for you, and how do you make the right choice? The simplest approach is to make an appointment for a through evaluation. You can have a complete examination to determine whether a general dentistry procedure is necessary, or whether you’re ready for the cosmetic procedure you want.

You don’t need to look for another dentist for your initial evaluation. All you need to do is schedule an appointment with Dr. Yap. Let him know which cosmetic procedure you’re considering, and learn if other work needs to be done first. You can save time and money by not visiting two different dentists. It’s the easiest way to achieve oral health and an attractive smile, too! You can take the smart step and call today for a consultation.