A beautiful white smile is a great boost for your self-confidence and can dramatically improve your appearance. If you have stained, chipped, or unevenly spaced teeth, veneers or componeers are both effective, non-intrusive ways of improving the look of your smile and increasing your self-esteem!
As dental technology increases, so do your options for a smile makeover. Veneers are the more traditional option, but Componeers are a newer option that can save you time and money. Here are the differences between the two so that you can decide which option is best suited for you:
Veneers
Veneers are very commonly used to correct minor misalignments, or spaces, and to correct any discolouration, resulting in a brilliant white smile. Usually made of porcelain, veneers are custom-fitted and placed over your front teeth to create a natural effect. Veneers are the most traditional, effective, and long-lasting smile enhancement.
Pros:
- Less intrusive than crowns or braces.
- Time-effective. Veneers are usually completed in one or two appointments.
- Long-lasting. Porcelain veneers will last for 10-20 years.
- You can brush and floss them as you would regular teeth.
Cons:
- Irreversible: Veneers are bonded to the enamel of your teeth.
- Expensive: Veneers cost between $800-$2,000 per tooth, a cost many find prohibitive.
Componeers
Componeers are a relatively new system, also known as “same-day” veneers. Componeers can be fitted and placed all in one day, without any laboratory time, which makes them faster and more cost-effective. Replacement is also very easy and inexpensive. Componeers are made of composite fibres, which make them less durable and long-lasting than veneers. This is, however, reflected in a much less expensive price.
Pros:
- Easily and quickly fitted in just one appointment.
- Easy to clean, repair, and replace.
- Don’t require excessive filling/preparation of the tooth.
- Hardly any damage to existing tooth structure.
- More economical.
Cons:
- Not as strong as a porcelain veneer.
- Don’t last as long as traditional veneers: Componeers last 3-8 years, but are easy to replace.
- Slightly less stain-resistant than porcelain veneers.
Your decision between traditional veneers and Componeers depends on many things, including the level of enhancement you want, the current state of your teeth, and your budget! If you are considering a smile makeover, the best thing to do is discuss your options with your dentist. At Sierra Dental we offer the option of both veneers and Componeers. Give us a call today to set up an appointment and get started on a whiter, brighter smile!