* Up to 12 months Payment Plans Available subject to the final treatment plan
Porcelain, zirconia, and composite resin are the commonly used materials in dental restorations and cosmetic dentistry, including veneers, crowns, bridges, and inlays or onlays. These materials are all biocompatible, meaning they are well-tolerated by the human body and rarely cause any adverse reactions. All three materials can be closely matched to the shade of natural teeth, and durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of daily activities such as biting and chewing. However, porcelain veneers have distinct advantages in terms of resembling natural teeth, stain resistance, and pricing.
Factors | Composite Veneers | Porcelain Veneers | Zirconium Veneers |
---|---|---|---|
MATERIAL |
Composite resin (tooth-coloured filling) |
High-quality dental porcelain |
Zirconia ceramic |
DURABILITY |
Can last up to 5-7 years with proper care |
Can last up to 10-15 years or more with proper care |
Can last up to 10-15 years or more with proper care |
STAIN RESISTANCE |
Moderate; susceptible to stains. Will require regular polishing |
Highly resistant to stains | Highly resistant to stains |
STRENGTH | Good; not as strong as porcelain |
Very strong; resistant to chipping |
Strongest; most durable option |
AESTHETICS |
Tooth-coloured but is less natural-looking than other options |
Closest resemblance to natural teeth |
Very good but slightly less natural than porcelain |
PROCEDURE TIME | Often completed in one visit | Usually requires two or more visits | Usually requires two or more visits |
COST | Less expensive | More expensive | Most expensive |
REPAIRABILITY | Can be easily repaired in most cases |
Cannot be repaired easily. May require replacement |
Cannot be repaired easily. May require replacement |
Dr Shaun A. Thompson is the founder of expatdental®. Dr Shaun has been working in Singapore since 2009, driven by a strong service ethos to make dental care a positive and hassle-free experience for everyone. Aided by the latest imaging and 3D printing technology, his practice focuses on cosmetic dentistry, implant dentistry, and facial aesthetics (i.e. injectable & dermal fillers) among others.
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In compliance with MOH guidelines in Singapore, medical clinics are not allowed to post before-and-after images on their website and social media platforms.
However, we are more than happy to share such images for your perusal during your in-clinic consultation with us.
Veneers are a permanent treatment that cannot be reversed. Sometimes as part of the process, your teeth may need to be filed down slightly so the veneer can fit in seamlessly.
This is a long term commitment, and once it is done it is permanent.
This all depends on the integrity of the tooth you’re putting a veneer on. Some cases require no reduction in the original tooth structure. However if there is decay or other major issues, some amounts of tooth will have to be removed.
You can expect your veneers to be just as strong as regular, healthy teeth. Often veneers are stronger than your existing teeth, however veneers aren’t indestructible.
Just as with natural teeth, you should not use your teeth as tools. You should avoid opening bottles with your teeth or cracking ice cubes or nuts.
You can rest assured that Dr Shaun and his team are very experienced with digital smile design and veneers. With advanced technology there should be no reason for your new smile to look bulky.