What are composite veneers? Costs & Procedures

At Allure Dental, we truly believe every smile is naturally beautiful, but we understand that our patients often wish to enhance the appearance of their smiles by correcting minor imperfections or making significant changes to improve smile balance, symmetry, and color while complementing their surrounding features and helping their personalities shine through. Among the most impactful cosmetic dental services for making over a smile is dental veneers. 

What Are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are wafer-thin, tooth-shaped shells that are designed to attach to and cover the front, visible surfaces of the teeth. They can be applied individually to mask minor concerns, such as permanent stains or a chipped tooth, or they can be applied in a complete set for a total smile makeover. 

Dental Veneer Treatment Applications

Dental veneers are a purely cosmetic treatment designed to improve the appearance of the smile. Some of the cosmetic concerns addressed with dental veneers include:

• Hiding permanent stains or discoloration
• Covering up chipped or broken teeth
• Correcting the appearance of abnormally shaped or sized teeth
• Masking irregular tooth gaps
• Creating the appearance of a straight smile
• Improving smile balance and symmetry

What Are Veneers Made of?

There are several types of veneers, such as composite veneers, porcelain veneers, and zirconia veneers. However, the two most popular and commonly used types are porcelain veneers and composite veneers. Each type of dental veneer primarily differs from others based on its materials. For example, the main difference between composite and porcelain veneers is that one type is made of porcelain and the other is made from resin composite. 

What Are Composite Veneers?

Composite veneers are dental veneers that are made from resin composite, which is a type of durable plastic material. Resin composite is commonly used in a wide array of dental treatments, such as tooth-colored dental fillings and dental bonding. 

Are Composite Veneers or Porcelain Veneers Better?

Neither composite veneers nor porcelain veneers is a better option because both offer unique benefits and drawbacks. The answer to this question is highly subjective and depends on the patient, their treatment goals, and preferences.

Some differences between the two that are worth considering include:

• Cost - In general, porcelain veneers are more expensive than composite veneers. 
• Durability - Porcelain veneers are more durable than composite veneers. On average, porcelain veneers last about 10 to 15 years, while composite veneers have an average lifespan of about five to 10 years.
• Appearance - Both composite and porcelain veneers provide a natural look and custom coloration. However, porcelain is generally able to achieve the most natural appearance because the material has a translucent quality that is highly similar to that of tooth enamel.
• Invasiveness - Getting dental veneers is generally considered a minimally invasive procedure. However, the removal of a layer of tooth enamel is required with porcelain veneers. With composite veneers, a dentist simply lightly scores the tooth enamel to achieve a strong bond. 
• Permanence - Placing porcelain veneers requires a layer of tooth enamel to be removed. As a result, porcelain veneers are a permanent treatment, meaning that once a patient gets porcelain veneers, they must maintain them for life. On the other hand, removing composite veneers is possible because they require a very minimal amount of tooth enamel to be removed before they are placed.
• Convenience - Porcelain veneers are typically manufactured in an external dental laboratory, requiring a patient to have multiple visits and, sometimes, wear temporary veneers while awaiting their permanent veneers. Composite veneers are applied and created in the dentist's office, eliminating the need for extra appointments and temporary veneers. 

Our dentist can talk with you about your treatment goals and answer any questions you have about the different types of veneers to help you decide which treatment option is right for you.

The Composite Dental Veneers Procedure

The treatment process begins with a patient consultation and examination. Our dentist will examine your teeth and talk with you about your concerns and treatment goals before designing a comprehensive treatment plan for you. 

We then use a local anesthetic to ensure you don't experience any sensitivity or discomfort during your treatment process. We then apply a mild chemical abrasive that scores and roughens up your tooth enamel, so that the resin material will be able to create a strong bond with your teeth. 

Once the enamel is prepared, our dentist applies a small amount of resin composite to the tooth or teeth that are being treated. We then mold, shape, sculpt, and texture the resin to create the desired look. Once properly shaped and textured, we use a special ultraviolet light to cure and set the resin. At this point, we can make minor adjustments to ensure your desired look has been achieved.

Financial Considerations: How Much Does a Full Set of Veneers Cost?

The cost of composite dental veneers can vary significantly depending on the type and number of teeth being treated. On average, composite veneers cost between $500 and $1,500 per tooth and range from about $4,000 to $6,000 for a complete set.

Does Dental Insurance Cover the Cost of Composite Veneers?

Although there are always some exceptions, dental insurance does not typically include coverage for dental veneers because they are considered a purely cosmetic, elective treatment. Our office team will be happy to help you navigate your insurance policy and provide you with an estimate of treatment costs. 

Additionally, we offer patients a variety of payment plans, discount opportunities, and other financial options.

Making Your Treatment Last: How to Care for Composite Veneers

Composite veneers last an average of five to 10 years, but there are things you can do to extend their life and keep them looking like new beyond their average lifespan. 

• Practice good oral hygiene and continue visiting the dentist regularly for professional cleanings. 
• Avoid consuming highly pigmented foods and drinks that can stain your dental veneers. This includes things like coffee, tea, red wine, dark-colored sodas, chocolates, and berries. If you do consume these things, rinse your mouth with water right after. 
• Avoid chewing on hard objects (like pen caps or pencils) and never chew on ice. These items can chip your dental veneers. 

If you do experience a problem with a composite veneer, the good news is that they are quick and simple to fix. 

Are Dental Veneers Right for You? Treatment Alternatives and Possibilities

Dental veneers are just one of several treatments that can improve the look of your smile. Depending on your individual needs and goals, alternative treatments might be better suited, such as:

• Professional teeth whitening to dissolve and lift stains for a whiter, brighter, more evenly colored smile
• Dental crowns to protect your teeth and improve their appearance
• Dental bonding to repair and protect a chipped or broken tooth
• Orthodontic treatment with Invisalign or braces to correct crooked, crowded, misaligned teeth

Create Your Dream Smile With Cosmetic Dentistry in Mandeville

If your smile has imperfections that prevent you from feeling proud to show it off, then dental veneers might be the right treatment option for you. Our dentist can talk with you about your concerns and help you determine the best course of action to help you create a healthy, aesthetically pleasing smile. To learn more or request an appointment, we welcome you to contact Allure Dental today.

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