For almost 50 years, Composite Veneers, also known as Composite Bonding, has been a well-received technique involving bonding a tooth-colored composite resin onto the affected tooth. To prepare the tooth surface for bonding, a mild acidic gel is used to clean it, after which the bonding agent is applied. Small amounts of composite resin are then placed on the stained, crooked, short, chipped, decayed or broken tooth with great care.

After the application, a special light is used to set and harden the material. The final touch is polishing to give it a natural, tooth-like appearance.

If you’re looking for a solution to cover up dental imperfections and achieve a dazzling, uniform smile, dental veneers may be the way to go. Common imperfections include crooked or misshapen teeth, chipped or discolored teeth, and eroded enamel. Unlike crowns, which cover the entire tooth, veneers only cover a portion of the tooth. This means that they require less trimming than crowns, making them a viable option for those with relatively healthy teeth who simply want to change the appearance of their smile.

On the other hand, if you have a severely damaged tooth, such as one that has been broken or requires a root canal, a crown may be a more appropriate solution.

Direct composite veneers are crafted from a composite resin material and are applied directly to the surface of your teeth. The application process is considered minimally invasive and requires little preparation time.

Indirect composite veneers, on the other hand, are made in a dental laboratory or in your dentist’s office before being affixed to your teeth. While the application process is similar to that of direct veneers, the materials used are more durable and resistant to abrasions and fractures. This added durability often results in a higher cost for indirect composite veneers.

Porcelain veneers, which are also custom-made, require the creation of dental molds to fabricate the thin porcelain shells. These shells are then cemented onto your teeth and shaped to mimic the natural appearance of your original teeth.

Temporary veneers may be necessary during the wait for the creation of the final veneers.

In comparison to the past, composite veneers are now known for their increased durability, with an average lifespan of 5 to 7 years. However, it should be noted that this lifespan is substantially shorter than that of porcelain veneers, which can last at least 10 to 15 years.

With proper care, it is possible to extend the life of your composite veneers. This can be achieved by incorporating regular brushing with a nonabrasive toothpaste into your daily routine, as well as refraining from chewing on hard objects with your front teeth. Additionally, it may be wise to be cautious of beverages such as coffee or tea, which could potentially stain your new veneers.