It’s true that veneers can tackle a majority of cosmetic flaws, but that’s because the treatment is largely customizable, from the shape and size of the restorations to the materials they’re made from. Because of this, they’re an excellent option for patients facing all different types of issues. Read on to learn more about the four different types of veneers you can have crafted to rebuild and rejuvenate your smile.
E-MAX Veneers
E-MAX, or ceramic veneers, are a popular choice, as they’re cost-effective and deliver a lifelike, high-quality look. They’re best known for their durability and ability to resemble tooth enamel because they can reflect light in the same way. With good dental hygiene, your ceramic veneers can last well over a decade without complications, and because it’s a non-porous material, they also naturally resist staining.
Zirconia Veneers
Zirconia is one of the most durable dental materials available, resistant to chipping, fracturing, and more. It’s made of zirconium dioxide, which is a type of ceramic that’s not translucent, allowing it to effectively conceal discoloration, damage, and more imperfections. However, because teeth are naturally translucent, this can also appear a little unnatural. Due to their quality and strength, veneers crafted from this material typically last the longest.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain is the most common material that veneers are made from. This is largely because they offer the best in both aesthetics and durability, making them an excellent middle ground between ceramic and zirconia. Porcelain is able to mimic the natural tooth’s appearance by reflecting light, just like E-MAX, and it can be custom-shaded to be virtually indistinguishable from surrounding teeth. Due to the material’s thickness, a small amount of tooth enamel must be removed in order for the porcelain veneers to fit properly over the visible surface of your teeth. With routine maintenance, they can last for well over two decades.
Composite Veneers
Finally, for those looking for a less costly and faster option, there are composite veneers. These are typically crafted in-office from the same tooth-colored resin that your dentist uses to fill cavities or repair minor dental damage. They have a high success rate when they’re placed on the front of teeth, but because the material is porous and not as durable, they tend to become stained and damaged more easily. Typically, these need to be replaced within about seven years.
About the Author
Dr. Hamid Ranjbaran enjoys getting to know each of his patients on a personal level, which he feels helps him deliver exceptional cosmetic results because he better understands their goals and motivations for investing in their smiles. He offers a wide array of smile beautifying treatments, including veneers, and has completed many hours of continuing education focused on full mouth reconstruction. For questions or to schedule a consultation, visit Southwest Dental’s website or call 505-896-9399.