Are you unhappy with the appearance of your teeth? Do they have chips, worn enamel, or a general yellow appearance? If so, then you may benefit from dental veneers from a clinic like BayView Dental Arts. Veneers are made from a layer of porcelain or composite resin that is placed over your teeth. The veneers not only give your teeth a whiter, healthier appearance, but they also help prevent your teeth from further damage. Veneers could help you avoid more costly, complicated, and painful treatment down the road. Veneers are generally applied either directly or indirectly. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to consider each before moving forward.

Indirect Veneers

Indirect veneers are constructed by a technician in a lab before they are applied to your teeth. They're usually made from porcelain, which is durable material that holds up well. You'll likely need to visits to your dentist or prosthodontist for indirect veneers. One visit is to size and shape your teeth. The other is to install the veneers. 

Indirect porcelain veneers are popular because they look like real teeth and because they last for a much longer period of time than direct veneers. You don't have to worry about indirect porcelain veneers cracking or chipping on hard food. They also may feel more comfortable than direct veneers since the indirect veneers are crafted specifically for your teeth.

On the other hand, porcelain veneers are often significantly more expensive than direct veneers. This cost is driven by the porcelain material that's used as well as the time it takes to craft the veneers.

Direct Veneers

Direct veneers are applied directly to your teeth in one visit. They're made from composite resin, which is a thin substance that creates a fresh, white layer on your teeth. Since the resin is applied directly, the direct veneers aren't specifically made for your teeth. Rather, they're applied over your teeth in the best fit possible. However, they may feel a bit uncomfortable until you get used to them.

Direct resin veneers are less expensive than indirect veneers, but also come with a few important considerations. First, they don't last as long as indirect veneers. Depending on your age, it's very possible that you'll have to have your direct veneers replaced several times throughout your lifetime. Direct veneers can also be vulnerable to chipping and cracking, so you'll need to be careful with certain tough foods and also habits like biting your nails. 

Talk to your prosthodontist about which type of veneer is best for you. They can go over your options and help you make an informed decision.

Share