Guide
Porcelain vs composite veneers: which is right for you?
Both can change the shape and color of your front teeth. They're made differently, they age differently, and they ask different things of your natural teeth.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Rodolfo Rodriguez, DMD · Updated
The basic difference
Porcelain veneers are made outside the mouth — at Perla, with our in-house ceramist — and then bonded to your teeth. Composite veneers are made of tooth-colored resin, shaped and hardened directly on your teeth, usually in one visit.
How they compare
- Look. Porcelain lets light through much like enamel and keeps its shine. Composite can look very good when it's new, but tends to lose polish and pick up stain over time.
- Durability. Porcelain is harder and resists stains and wear; it can chip or crack, especially with grinding. Composite is softer and more likely to chip or stain, but small chips can often be repaired in the chair.
- Your natural teeth. Porcelain usually needs a thin layer of enamel removed. Composite can often be added with little or no reduction.
- Time. Composite is usually done in one visit. Porcelain takes a few visits: design, preparation with temporaries, and fitting.
- Upkeep. Both need good brushing, flossing and regular cleanings. Composite tends to need polishing and touch-ups more often.
Which one makes sense
Porcelain suits people who want a lasting, natural-looking change to the teeth that show when they smile — shape, length and color — designed with our in-house ceramist. Composite can suit a small repair or a quick, simple change.
Whitening or Invisalign before veneers can mean fewer veneers are needed. See Porcelain veneers in Miami for how we design them.
Questions to ask before you choose
- Who designs the veneers, and where are they made?
- How much of my enamel would be removed?
- Do I need to treat grinding, gum disease or decay before cosmetic work?
- Would whitening or straightening first reduce how many veneers I need?
- What maintenance will these need, and what happens if one chips?
FAQs
Which lasts longer?
Can composite veneers be replaced with porcelain later?
Is one cheaper?
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