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How Long Do Composite Veneers Last?

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I’ve been looking at options for smile makeovers. Most people suggest getting porcelain veneers, but I am just curious about composite veneers. Would they be less expensive? How long will they last?

Carol

Dear Carol,

before and after dental bonding

In most cases, composite bonding is better used for small repairs, like a tooth gap or chipped tooth. The procedure has to be done freehand, which would take much longer in the dental chair than porcelain veneers will. In fact, many dentists will not do a smile makeover with composite resin for that reason. It would end up costing you more because of the tedious nature of the smile development.  On top of that, the composite bonding will only keep their luster a few years before they begin to pick up stains. On the other hand, well-cared for porcelain veneers can last upwards of twenty years.

My suggestion would be to look for an excellent cosmetic dentist. This is not a skill taught in dental school, nor is it a recognized specialty. If a dentist wants to become skilled, they would need to invest in post-doctoral training. It would be easiest for you to just look for an AACD accredited dentist. These dentists have proven skill and artistry. It will keep you from having to investigate the training of each dentist you look at. Any one of them can give you an extraordinary smile makeover.

Let them look at your teeth and talk to them about the look you want. They will be able to determine what procedure can give you the best outcome.

I hope this helps.

This blog is brought to you by Philadelphia Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Michael Weiss.

Should I Get My Veneers Online?

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I have a discolored front tooth. Previously, it was damaged from a fall. My dentist did a composite repair on it. It was okay, but there was some color disparity and a small gap. I want to cover four teeth. I am not as worried about the color difference because the whole surface will be covered. The problem I’m having is the cost. It’s pretty steep. I just saw a company online that does snap-on veneers. I can get a full set for $700. Would that be a better option for me?

Kevin

Dear Kevin,

before and after dental bonding

 

Let’s talk about the composite bonding first. Don’t do it. First, you mentioned your dentist had trouble repairing a chipped tooth. There was a mismatch in color as well as a small gap. I’m not sure if you meant a gap between your two front teeth or a gap between the composite and natural tooth structure. Either way, your dentist has a serious lack of skill. If the gap was between the composite and your natural tooth structure, that can lead to serious decay issues. I would love for you to have a thorough check up before moving forward with this just to ensure there is not any build up of decay in the gap.

If your dentist could not handle a chipped tooth, which should blend completely like the case pictured above, then you certainly do not want him doing large surface areas of your teeth. Plus, composite does not last nearly as long as porcelain veneers. You would have to re-do the work every few years. So, even if you could afford what your dentist is suggesting, say no. If you’re going to get a smile makeover, do it with porcelain veneers. Even then, you will want an expert cosmetic dentist, such as an AACD accredited dentist.

As for the snap-on veneers, the best of these options is made by a company that produces Snap-on Smile. You have to understand its limitations before investing. It is not made of porcelain so will not be as beautiful or natural looking. They are made of acrylic. They are not really designed for smile makeovers and are mostly designed to help people with really bad teeth get through an important event such as a job interview or special evening. They will look okay, not stunning. Because they fit over your teeth, they have the tendency to look a bit bulky too.

If you were going to get Snap-on Smile, I say only do it as a temporary measure while you save up for a true smile makeover with porcelain veneers. Done and cared for well, veneers can last your lifetime.

This blog is brought to you by Philadelphia Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Michael Weiss.