The idea of having dental work done can often seem unsavory or scary. However, if you suffer from tooth sensitivity or are dissatisfied with the appearance of your teeth, then you should consider dental veneers. This mostly-cosmetic procedure offers a multitude of benefits while being painless and simple.

What are dental veneers?

A veneer is a thin layer of material that is placed on top of the tooth. It can serve as either an aesthetic or protective element, depending on the type of veneer that you get. There are also two main materials that dental veneers are made out of: porcelain and composite.

So what's the difference between porcelain and composite?

Porcelain veneers are quite a bit more durable and natural-looking than composite veneers. They will last at least a decade, and are quite resistant to stains. This ultimately means that porcelain veneers are the best choice if you want a long-lasting option that will protect your teeth to the fullest.

So what's the catch?

Unfortunately, this comes at a cost to both your bank account and your convenience. Getting porcelain veneers installed can take several visits, since they aren't immediately installed into your mouth like composites. In order to get the perfect fit for your porcelain veneers, you will first need to go to the dentist to get measured, and then will need to return after the veneers have been crafted to specification. On the other hand, composites can be made and fitted into your mouth on the very same visit.

In general, porcelain veneers will be significantly more expensive than composite veneers due to a variety of factors. Porcelain veneers require a specialized lab to create the veneers while composites can be made on the spot by most dentists. Porcelain veneers also require a more expensive material than composites, which are generally made from the same resin that is used for fillings and treating cavities.

So which option is best?

If you're on a budget, in a hurry, or if you plan on getting a more expensive set of veneers later in life, then you'll probably want to opt for the composite veneers. However, if you can take the initial strain on your wallet, you are better off going for the porcelain. Both options are excellent for improving the color and shape of your teeth, as well as preventing decay, so the only thing you really need to worry about is durability and longevity. Contact a dental professional like one from The Center For Progressive Dentistry for more information.

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