Question: I have always heard of porcelain lamiate veneers, but I recently read about "composite resin" veneers that are less than half the cost. What are these?
- Mary S. in Malden, MA
Answer: One of he many things I like about dentistry (other than the free toothpaste samples), is the frequent ability to offer more than one option to satisfy a patient's desires. (Dental, desires that is!)
Case in point: A patient wants gorgeous, straighter whiter teeth, but 10 upper porcelain lamiate veneers are not financially feasible at this time. What is the plan "B"? Composite resin veneers.
Porcelain lamiate veneers require two to four appointments over a three week period; utilize local anesthesia for the reduction of enamel and utilize impressions, temporaries and laboratory work to create long lasting restorations.
Composite resin veneers often are done in one visit, no lab work, and are at least half the cost of porcelain lamiates. However, it does not last as long as porcelain laminate.
- Mary S. in Malden, MA
Answer: One of he many things I like about dentistry (other than the free toothpaste samples), is the frequent ability to offer more than one option to satisfy a patient's desires. (Dental, desires that is!)
Case in point: A patient wants gorgeous, straighter whiter teeth, but 10 upper porcelain lamiate veneers are not financially feasible at this time. What is the plan "B"? Composite resin veneers.
Porcelain lamiate veneers require two to four appointments over a three week period; utilize local anesthesia for the reduction of enamel and utilize impressions, temporaries and laboratory work to create long lasting restorations.
Composite resin veneers often are done in one visit, no lab work, and are at least half the cost of porcelain lamiates. However, it does not last as long as porcelain laminate.
Dr. Wu practices Advanced Restorative Dentistry in Malden, Massachusetts. She is an extramural faculty member of the Boston University School of Dental Medicine, and a columnist in the Malden Observer Newspaper. Dr. Wu was awarded America's Top Dentists in 2009 and 2010 by the Consumer's Research Council of America. Dr. Wu can be reached at diana.pwudmd@verizon.net (781) 322-0131, or by visiting www.mymaldendentist.com
