Porcelain and resin veneers are placed in order to correct slight or severe defects in tooth alignment, shape, or color. They are also placed when teeth have been moderately restored and the teeth have been weakened. This is done when there is still enough enamel left for the bonding to be successful. If the teeth are in very poor alignment or there is insufficient enamel remaining, bonding to improve the appearance is not possible.
At that point orthodontics or full-coverage crowns must be considered. The most common use for bonding veneers, either porcelain or resin, is to improve the cosmetic appearance of the patient.
Without question, porcelain veneers look the best and last the longest.
- They are indicated when the teeth are in fair to good alignment or when a more pleasing tooth color is desired.
- The procedure usually requires some slight to moderate tooth preparation (drilling)
- Local anesthesia is usually necessary.
- The procedure requires two separate appointments, approximately 10 days apart to complete.
- This is because the veneers are constructed in an offsite laboratory.
- Once bonded into place, the porcelain veneers become very strong.
- The success rate is high, and they can last up to 12 or more years.
- Veneers are highly stain resistant.
- They are a good treatment choice when all the front teeth are being restored.
- They are more expensive than resin veneers, but they last longer and look better than resin.