Composite Veneers Vs Ceramic Veneers: What to Choose

Hello you,

We know you’re putting a lot of thought into getting veneers, and I’m happy to guide you through the process so you can make the best decision. I’ll explain both options in detail—ceramic veneers and composite veneers—so you’ll know what to expect and how to avoid any potential issues.

Ceramic Veneers (also known as Porcelain Veneers): The Gold Standard

Porcelain veneers, also called ceramic, are popular because they provide a very natural-looking, long-lasting result. They’re custom-made in a dental lab, designed specifically for each tooth, and are excellent at mimicking the translucent quality of natural teeth. Here’s what you need to know:

• Durability: Ceramic veneers can last anywhere from 10–15 years, sometimes longer with proper care. Their strength comes from the materials used and the fact that porcelain is resistant to stains (from coffee, tea, or smoking). However, it’s not indestructible. While strong, porcelain can crack or chip if you grind your teeth or bite down on hard objects like ice or pens.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Porcelain gives a natural, glossy look, making it nearly impossible for others to tell that you have veneers (unless you opt for a very bright white colour that is very different to your natural tooth colour). This is why they’re often recommended for people who want to correct discolouration, gaps, or misshaped teeth in a way that looks as natural as possible.
• Procedure: The process usually takes two visits. The first visit involves preparing the teeth by removing a thin layer of enamel—about 0.5mm. This is irreversible but necessary to make room for the veneer. After taking impressions of your teeth, temporary veneers are placed. The second visit is when the permanent veneers are bonded. Our experienced specialists make this process fairly swiftly, but you must allow for enough time as proper filling of the veneers is essential to ensure your dental health is maintained.
• Cost: Porcelain veneers are typically more expensive, but they offer the longest-lasting solution and are the least prone to staining.

Composite Veneers: A Quicker, Budget-Friendly Alternative

Composite veneers, on the other hand, are made from a tooth-coloured resin, the same material used in dental bonding. They are often chosen as a more affordable and quicker option, but are also preferred due to the fact that they require less shaving of the tooth to be placed. Let me break it down for you:

• Durability: Composite veneers last around 5–7 years, so they’re not as durable as porcelain. They are more prone to chipping and staining, especially if you consume a lot of coffee, tea, or red wine. On the positive side, they can be repaired relatively easily compared to porcelain. If you grind your teeth at night, a mouthguard is a must to prevent damage.
• Aesthetic Appeal: While our specialists are exceptionally talented and composite veneers can be made to look very natural, they don’t have the same translucency as porcelain. They’re slightly more opaque and appear far more authentic. If you’re after a glossy look, porcelain might be better.
• Procedure: One of the advantages of composite veneers is that they can often be done in a single visit. The dentist applies the resin directly to the tooth and shapes it, so it’s a quicker process compared to porcelain. Another plus is that less enamel needs to be removed, and in some cases, none at all. This makes the procedure less invasive and protects your natural teeth, whilst still giving you a Holywood smile.
• Cost: Composite veneers are roughly half the cost of porcelain (starting from £595 per tooth), making them more budget-friendly. They’re a good option if you’re not ready to commit to porcelain but still want to improve the appearance of your teeth.

How to Avoid Things Going Wrong

Regardless of which option you choose, here are some things to look out for to ensure everything goes smoothly:

• Use only Experienced Dentista: Veneers are a highly technical procedure. Make sure your dentist has plenty of experience, like the dental specialists on our team.  A poorly done veneer can lead to discomfort, visible edges, or even long-term damage to the underlying tooth.
• Preparation Is Key: For porcelain veneers, the enamel removal process is irreversible. Make sure you’re comfortable with this commitment and ask your dentist about temporary veneers, as these will give you a preview of the final look.
• Care for Your Veneers: Once your veneers are in place, take care of them! Avoid biting down on hard objects and cut back on foods that can cause stains (especially for composite veneers). Use a non-abrasive toothpaste and brush and floss regularly to keep your gums healthy. Remember, good oral hygiene is still essential to avoid decay around the veneers.
• Night Guards if You Grind: If you grind your teeth at night, ask your dentist about getting a night guard to protect your veneers, especially if you opt for porcelain. Grinding can shorten the lifespan of both porcelain and composite veneers.
• Regular Check-Ups: Even if you’re living in another country, make sure you’re getting regular dental check-ups. Your dentist can keep an eye on the condition of your veneers and address any issues before they become a problem.

Comparison between Ceramic and Composite Veneers

Should you, or should you not, get veneers?

Before deciding on veneers, it’s important to really consider whether the procedure is necessary. Veneers are a form of prosthetic dentistry and, while they can greatly enhance the appearance of your teeth, they come with lifelong maintenance and potential risks. Procedures like these often require removing part of the tooth’s enamel—up to 30% in some cases—which can lead to sensitivity and decay. Additionally, veneers typically need replacing or repair over time.

That said, don’t underestimate the value of confidence.

If your teeth are significantly affecting how you feel about yourself and your ability to smile or speak confidently, veneers may be a worthwhile investment. The key is to ensure that the decision is not made lightly and to consult with an experienced dentist who will carefully assess whether veneers are truly necessary in your situation.

Always weigh the pros and cons, and remember that while cosmetic enhancements are valuable, healthy teeth should never be compromised unnecessarily.

* For more impartial information on veneers, please visit this page.

If You Have a Composite Veneer or Ceramic Veneer Emergency in London

If you’re experiencing an issue with your dental veneers—whether they’ve chipped, cracked, or detached—don’t wait to seek help. Veneer problems can worsen quickly, leading to discomfort, sensitivity, or even damage to the underlying tooth.

Contact us right away to prevent further complications and restore your smile. Our 24-hour clinic in London is here to help, no matter the time. Don’t let a veneer emergency affect your confidence or comfort—reach out now for immediate care!