Composite or porcelain veneers: an honest comparison

Composite veneers are tooth-coloured resin sculpted directly onto the tooth, usually in one visit. Porcelain veneers are thin ceramic shells made by a dental technician from a scan or impression and bonded on at a second visit.

Side by side

• Tooth preparation: composite often needs little or none; porcelain usually needs a thin layer of enamel reshaped
• Visits: composite usually one; porcelain usually two or more
• Lifespan: composite commonly around five to seven years before refurbishment; porcelain often ten to fifteen years or more with good care
• Staining: composite can pick up stains and lose polish over time; porcelain is highly stain resistant
• Repairs: composite chips can usually be repaired in the chair; a damaged porcelain veneer normally needs replacing
• Cost: composite costs less per tooth at the start; porcelain costs more but may need replacing less often

Who tends to suit which

Composite suits people wanting a conservative, reversible-leaning change — closing small gaps, rebuilding chipped edges, evening out shape. Porcelain suits people wanting a larger, longer-lasting change in colour and shape, or teeth that are heavily discoloured or worn.

Sometimes neither is the first step. Straightening with aligners or whitening first can mean fewer teeth need treatment, or that composite is enough.

Risks to know about

Both can chip or debond, and teeth can be sensitive afterwards. Removing enamel for porcelain is not reversible. Grinding shortens the life of either, so a nightguard may be recommended.

Veneers in Twickenham

Dr Sundeep Solanki plans both types around your face and existing teeth, and will tell you if a smaller treatment would do the job. Current fees are on the fees page.