More and more these days, it’s easy to think all veneers use porcelain. Dentists and patients alike will frequently mention the latter to describe the former. Even so, the reality is different; dental veneers can be made without porcelain (and often are). Your Superior practice will even tell you about the alternative materials, outlining them in close detail. Just keep reading to learn about veneer materials besides porcelain, as well as how to ask your dentist about them.
Veneer Materials Besides Porcelain
While porcelain is the most common veneer material, it isn’t the only one on offer. Dentists can make the tooth-colored shells with several other substances, including:
E-Max
If you want an equivalent to porcelain, you should consider E-max. This material – also known as lithium disilicate – is known for its natural aesthetics, strength, and durability. Given these qualities, veneers made with E-max can last more than ten years with proper oral care. Just note that the shells would have a lengthy application process, and they’d be more prone to chipping and fracturing.
Zirconium
Try zirconium when toughness is your top veneer priority. Famous as one of the most durable materials, this substance boasts superior strength and quality. It’s highly resistant to chips, cracks, and other kinds of fractures, and veneers made from it can outlast most other types. That said, zirconium can make the final shells costly.
Composite
When you just want something cheap and quick, use composite for your veneers. Its main component is resin – a non-toxic, tooth-colored material that blends well with one’s smile. Composite veneers can thus be placed quickly and cost little, but also have a shorter lifespan. These shells are also more prone to stains, scratches, and fractures.
Cerinate Porcelain
What some call “no-prep” veneers (or “Lumineers”) are made of cerinate porcelain. Unlike the standard kind, this material is so thin and compact that dentists can place it without enamel removal. Veneers that use it are thus known as a quick fix for chipped, misshapen, and discolored teeth. The downside to cerinate porcelain, though, is that it’s easily fractured and chipped; it also doesn’t cover stains as well.
Consult Your Dentist for Options
Of course, not every veneer provider will have every possible material. You’ll need to consult your dentist to see which ones are available.
Rest assured that your dentist will do their best to meet your needs. As you consult them, they’ll gladly walk you through the veneer materials you can choose from. They’ll also offer helpful suggestions and tips based on your budget, personal preferences, and so on.
Since veneers can be made without porcelain, don’t hesitate to try alternatives. Finding the right material will ensure your smile thrives!
About the Practice
Hill Avenue Dental is based in Superior, WI. Led by Dr. Douglas Clark III, our practice does its utmost to give you a truly healthy and beautiful smile. We thus provide preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dental treatments, all tailored to your unique needs. Among these offerings are even dental veneers, which are made of tooth-colored materials that blend with your grin seamlessly. For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (715)-392-5161.