TYPES OF DENTAL VENEERS

There are different types of dental veneers available. Dental veneers are mainly made from porcelain or resin composite materials. A wide range of veneers can be made from both of these materials. They include E-max, zirconium and porcelain laminate. Each type of veneer has a distinct lifespan however numerous studies show that in general porcelain veneers survive longer than composite veneers.

Porcelain Veneers

Veneers made of porcelain are one of the most popular choices among patients. Porcelain veneers are the best in terms of stain resistance compared to resin veneers. They are also very good at mimicking the light-reflecting properties of natural teeth. Furthermore, they are great for being strong and long-lasting. Multiple clinical investigations have found that porcelain veneers have outstanding aesthetic results, duration, and patient satisfaction. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6311473/) Other advantages of porcelain veneers include:

• There is a low risk of tooth breaking or chipping.
• Porcelain veneers have a smooth texture and not bulky, so they provide natural-looking smile.
• Bright and slightly translucent appearance of natural teeth.

Keep in mind: While porcelain veneers are incredibly durable and natural-looking, they are also a more expensive option. Furthermore, in case of chipping or breaking of veneer, it requires a replacement therefore repair is not sufficient.

Porcelain Laminate (Leaf Porcelain)

Porcelain laminates are attached to the front surface of the teeth to improve the patient’s smile and dental health to perfection. These are relatively new type of veneer that adhere to teeth using a modern method. Porcelain laminates are significant components of smile design. They are used when whitening is ineffective, patients have huge gaps between their teeth or uneven teeth. Laminates, unlike other methods, do not abrade the original tooth enamel. During the treatment stage, which begins after a thorough examination of the patient’s face type, gender and colour of skin, a minor amount of tooth cutting may be required in some cases.

They are made of thin porcelain material and are almost invisible. Laminates are prepared in the desired colour, size and shape to address aesthetic issues with the front teeth. When the treatment is completed, a flawless unification is expected. Porcelain laminate veneers can last from 10 to 12 years. Other advantages of porcelain laminates include:

• Coatings are made of non-discolouring materials so food-related (such as cigarettes, coffee, and alcohol) stains are at a minimal level
• Great resistance to abrasion
• Durable and can be used for a long time
• They retain their structural integrity
• Easy modification
• Painless procedure

E-MAX

A popular type of veneer is E-Max veneers, made from lithium disilicate glass-ceramic. The E-Max system has a translucence which provides protection to actual teeth.  Perhaps this translucent colour is E-max’s most appealing attribute. As traditional veneers have a tendency to be on the opaque end of the spectrum. Due to their natural aesthetics and strength, they are ideal for patients wishing to have natural-looking teeth. As a result, they are tough and durable but look exactly like real teeth. Other advantages of E-max include:

• They can last for at least 10 years with appropriate care. After that, patients generally request a replacement for cosmetic reasons.
• E-Max can be colour-matched to your existing teeth for a natural-looking and smooth integration smile.
• Since E-Max veneers are significantly stronger and tougher than regular porcelain veneers, only a small amount of enamel is removed. Therefore the patient will feel little to no discomfort while having teeth prepared.

Zirconium Veneers

The transition zirconium (also called zircon, zirconia) was discovered in the 18th century. Zirconium is used in a variety of fields, from aerospace to the military, because of its corrosion resistance. Extensive decay, chipping, and fracture can all be fixed with zirconium veneers. It possesses excellent strength because no other materials other than zirconium dioxide have been added to the formula. The exceptional strength and durability of zirconium veneers are one of its most notable characteristics. These veneers are reported to have a long-life expectancy, ranging from 15 to 30 years.

Keep in mind: Zirconium veneers may appear unnatural due to their opacity and are tough to modify.

Composite Veneers (Resin Veneers)

Composite veneers are a less expensive and faster-to-apply alternative to porcelain veneers. Some patients prefer composite veneers simply due to their cost-effectiveness. They are made of resin which is a tooth-coloured dental repair material. Resin is not a very tough material therefore they have a higher rate of success when applied only to the front teeth.

According to several studies, composite veneers provide a good aesthetic result and patient satisfaction. Nevertheless, when compared to porcelain veneers, composite veneers have been shown to break substantially faster. This is due to their bonding strength and physical qualities.  (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6311473/) 

Keep in mind: Although composite veneers are less expensive than porcelain veneers, they are more prone to breaking, staining and chipping. Composite veneers, unlike porcelain veneers, have a lifespan of about 5 years.

Palatal Veneers (Palatal Onlays)

 Veneers are typically used to restore and enhance the anterior teeth. Palatal onlays, on the other hand, are a form of veneers that are utilized to restore and enhance the posterior (the surface behind front teeth) teeth. The term palatal comes from the medical name for the area behind a tooth’s surface. Bruxism, erosion and a deep bite are all common causes of tooth disorders. As patients are typically asymptomatic, palatal destruction of the anterior teeth is a very subtle condition. Palatal veneers are an excellent way to treat only the damaged area of a tooth while leaving the rest of the teeth untouched. Advantages of palatal veneers include: 

• In the mouth, palatal veneers are extremely comfortable.
• This veneer is both a dental treatment for oral health issues and an aesthetic enhancement.
• They are available in two materials: porcelain and resin.

 Keep in mind: Due to the unique tooth restoration equipment that must be produced in a dental lab, palatal veneer treatments are typically more expensive than standard fillings. Also, a dental filling only requires one visit to the dentist. On the other hand, palatal veneer requires generally two visits.

Partial Veneers

Partial veneers are used to cover only a portion of a tooth’s front surface, whilst full veneers cover the entire front surface. They are intended to conceal small flaws such as chipped, stained and gaps between teeth. They’re also useful for repairing eroded dental enamel, which can cause sensitivity, pain, and irritation. The preparation and application of partial veneers are no different from full veneers. As a cosmetic alternative to full veneers, some people opt for partial veneers to address cavities, tooth discolouration and minor cracks.

Removable Veneers (Non-Permanent or Temporary Veneers)

Instant veneers and custom clip-on veneers are the two forms of removable veneers available. They are also called snap-on smiles or snap-on veneers. Traditional veneers are more invasive, permanent and expensive. On the contrary, removable veneers are non-permanent, less invasive and much cheaper. This offers an opportunity for patients who want to experience having flawless teeth but are undecided about making a long-term investment in traditional veneers. The detachable nature of this type of veneer is similar to that of dentures. However, unlike removable artificial teeth, it is a thin coating of tooth aesthetic that may be placed over broken or chipped teeth. Furthermore, removal veneers can be used as a temporary solution while the patient is waiting for their permanent veneers to be completed.

Keep in mind: Non-permanent veneers, on the other hand, might be painful. They don’t fit in as well with natural teeth and need to be updated frequently.

Custom Clip-On Veneers

Clip-on veneers are non-permanent dental appliances that are custom-made to fit your teeth. Clip-on veneers are similar to retainers or nightguards in that they fit over your teeth and can be removed at any time. Even though clip-on veneers are available in porcelain and composite resin, they are normally prepared of a resin material. This is a durable material, however, it will deteriorate over time. Advantages of custom clip-on veneers include:

• When compared to permanent veneers, clip-on veneers are a far cheaper option.
• Removable veneers are simple to insert and remove from your mouth.
• Unlike permanent veneers, you will not need to have any dental work done to attach the appliance to your teeth.

Keep in mind: Clip-on veneers may show symptoms of wear and tear such as stains and discolouration.

WHAT IS THE BEST VENEER TYPE?

All materials used in dental veneers have their unique set of advantages. Porcelain veneers are the most popular option among patients due to their natural appearance. They’re composed of high-quality ceramic therefore they last significantly longer life span than composite veneers. Also, they are stain-resistant and blend in with your natural teeth rather than looking fake. As a result, if you desire long-term quality and aesthetics, porcelain veneers are recommended.

Choosing the right veneer material depends on the problems the patient wishes to resolve. The dentist will determine the appropriate veneer material for the patient.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT VENEER TYPE?

The three most crucial elements to consider while choosing veneers are shape, substance, and budget. The most suitable veneer is selected by utilising the latest technologies such as muck-up. In the first stage of treatment, the mock-up application provides the opportunity for the patient to visualise the final result. A mock-up will be very similar to the desired outcome.

Additionally, the patient’s face shape should be considered for the perfect smile. Most people’s faces fall into one of four shapes: round, oval, heart, and square. Each face type has an appropriate tooth size and shape to balance the features and make you seem your best. As a result, the selection of which type of veneer to choose will be based mostly on personal preference and durability for long-term use of veneers.

Reference:

1. Hollins, Carole, “Basic Guide to Dental Procedures.” John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 2015.
2. Blue Ocean Publishing Group, “The Million Dollar Smile, Changing Lives with Cosmetic Dentistry.” 2018.
3. Alothman, Yousef, and Maryam Saleh Bamasoud. “The Success of Dental Veneers According To Preparation Design and Material Type.”Open access Macedonian journal of medical sciences  6,12 2402-2408. 14 Dec. 2018, doi:10.3889/oamjms.2018.353
4. Francesca Vailati, “Composite palatal veneers to restore a case of severe dental erosion, from minimally to non-invasive dentistry: a 5-year follow-up case report”