Difference Between Porcelain Veneers and Resin Veneers

Porcelain veneers and resin veneers are some of the most used treatments in cosmetic dentistry Melbourne. Both very popular types of dental veneers offered, but what is the difference between them? 

What Are Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain veneers were first introduced in the 1970s, and since then, they have become some of the most sought-after restorative dental treatments on the market. They create a strong bond with your teeth and can help to: 

• Close gaps between teeth (diastemas) 
• Repair chipped or cracked teeth 
• Improve crooked or misaligned teeth 
• Change tooth shade 
• Create symmetry for an arch of teeth 
• Re-create more defined facial features such as the nose and chin 

Due to its popularity, porcelain veneers have been one of the most researched dental restorations with a wide array of applications in modern dentistry. 

What Are Resin Veneers?

Resin veneers are a form of tooth-coloured restorations that can quickly repair damaged or discoloured teeth. They also aim to create a more defined facial appearance, but they're less permanent than porcelain veneers and do not bond as strongly with the teeth. This makes resin veneers ideal for people who want cosmetic dental treatments that don't require such deep levels of commitment. 

Resin veneers: 

• Are significantly cheaper than porcelain ones (despite their years of popularity) 
• Are fixed to the front surface of your teeth using adhesives — essentially gluing them to your existing teeth 
• Are much more versatile than porcelain veneers and can be used to: 

— Change the size or shape of your teeth, such as making them wider 

— Close small gaps or spaces in between your teeth (diastema) 

— Correct the colour of yellow teeth 

• Can be removed by a dentist with relative ease if you wish to change them for another treatment at a later date. However, this is not possible if you have had porcelain veneers applied, so it is important to consider this when choosing which type of treatment you prefer. 

Other Forms Of Dental Veneers?

Other common forms of dental veneers include Lumineers and Zirconia. These are made from a different type of resin and offer specific benefits, so they will not be compared here. 

Which Veneers Are Best?

Like most restorative treatments, both porcelain and resin veneers have their own set of pros and cons:  

• Porcelain veneers create a stronger bond with your teeth 
• Longer lasting can last up to 20 years or more 
• Less sensitive to heat and cold than bleached teeth due to their thickness  
• More expensive than resin ones (approximately double the price)  
• Can only be applied by an experienced dentist with advanced dental laboratory knowledge  
• Resin veneers are extremely thin and can chip or break relatively easily  
• Resin veneers are more prone to staining than porcelain ones — this means that it's harder to keep them looking as bright and white as your natural teeth (although some brands now offer resin veneer treatment with protective elements which make it less likely for yellow stains to form). 

Resin veneers could be an affordable restorative solution if you have damaged, chipped, or stained teeth. However, if you want a long-lasting treatment with superior aesthetic benefits, you should consider having porcelain veneers applied. The choice is ultimately up to you, but consulting your dentist before making any decisions is highly recommended.