The end of the year is the perfect time to get dental work done. Many businesses close down over the Christmas to New Year break, and that gives you plenty of time to fit in a dental appointment for a veneer fitting. As someone who has been wanting to get veneers for some time, there is one main decision you will need to make before they are prepared for you. That decision involves whether to get porcelain or composite veneers. There are a number of important differences between the two, so consider these points before you make your dental appointment. 

Longevity

One important factor about veneers is how long they last for. After all, once you make the initial outlay for them, you want them to last as long as possible. The veneer materials do have a different life expectancy. Porcelain veneers are very strong, and you will get at least a decade out of them. However, composite veneers last for about half the time of porcelain ones. The flip side of the longevity consideration is the cost. Composite veneers may last half as long, but they are also half the cost. Your dentist can make further comments about longevity and cost once you are discussing your choices.

Stain Resistance

Because the veneers are made out of two different types of material, they also react differently to stains. Stain resistance is particularly important if you like to indulge in a glass of red wine, if you smoke or if you enjoy hot beverages such as tea or coffee. All of these indulgences not only stain normal teeth, but they stain veneers as well. Both porcelain and composite veneers will stain from the mentioned items, but composite veneers stain faster because they are more porous. If you regularly indulge in anything on this list, discuss the staining factor with your dentist.

Repairs

One of the big differences between composite and porcelain veneers is the repairability of the veneer if it gets damaged. Porcelain veneers are stronger than their composite counterparts, and that means they are less likely to be chipped or damaged. However, if a porcelain veneer is damaged, then it needs to be replaced. Composite veneers, by comparison, can be repaired.

If you have any other questions about which veneer material is the better choice for your life, have a chat with your dentist. They are the ones who know your mouth best, so they are the best ones to advise you and help you to make the final choice.

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