One of the most common questions asked in our social media accounts – What is the difference between Direct Composite Veneers and Emax Porcelain Veneers. People are confused as to what material they should choose or get. Let us tell you right now that the dentists should recommend what is best for you, hence, be able to guide you as well what material you should choose.
So, it is always best to have an initial assessment so that the dentist can check clinically and radiographically your case and from there, create the most suitable treatment plan for you as well as the material of veneers.
Let’s start with Direct Composite Veneers.
Here are some samples of direct composite smiles:
All these patients had discolored teeth and unbalanced smile. As you can see, color is now even and look beautiful. This is a nice material as it can help give natural and gorgeous result. This is also the cheapest (in price) among all veneers material we have. This may also be completed in 1 day (depends on the case) – relatively a fast and quick procedure. This can also easily be manipulated meaning changing of the shade or altering the height is relatively easy and more possible to do without having to replace the actual veneer (case to case basis). So, those are the advantages.
But did you know that this material is not really good for long term solution? Why? This material may easily stain – and we’re not just talking about coffee stains, but even wine, chocolate even tomato sauces, etc.
Another thing is this is very very prone to chipping off because this is not much of a durable material compared to other veneer materials.
Lastly, it is handmade, so there is a possibility that there will be some minor discrepancies in terms of length, width, etc.
But let us be clear, we have seen direct composite veneers that lasted for 8-10 years. The question is – does it still look good? Answer is – not as good as when it was first done.
Let’s now proceed with Emax Porcelain Veneers.
Here are some samples of Emax porcelain smiles:
This type of material can mimic the natural anatomy and morphology of a natural tooth. Line angles, mamelons, incisal edges, etc. The concerns of the patients are also discolored restorations, misalignment, uneven smile, and the likes. All the smiles here are also beautiful but checking the details – these veneers look more natural compared to the direct composite result. If you are a coffee drinker or fond of eating/drinking colored food then this is more apt for you as this is stain resistant. This is also not prone to chipping because the material itself is very durable. This may also last for more than a decade if the patient will take care of it very well. So, those are the advantages.
On the other hand, this material is also more expensive than direct composite.
In terms of timeline, this will be completed in more than a week – so this takes longer to do as the ceramics are not handmade inside the patient’s mouth. The ceramics are being fabricated in the laboratory and a machine is being used to produce these.
This is also difficult to alter – meaning if you want to change the shade or add height to the final cemented veneers – the only way to do it is by replacing it.
Beautiful smiles achieved with different materials used. If you will ask us which material is better – our general answer is that porcelain would be more superior. But would we always recommend that to our patient? Of course not. We will always always assess the case first then from there, recommend what is applicable for our patient.
As you can see with the photos above. Whichever material you choose or will be placed on you will give great results and the aesthetic advantage you deserve. What we should always put in mind is that will this be good for long term or you just want a short term solution for yourself. Remember that getting veneers is a commitment and investment at the same time. You have to commit to having and practicing good oral hygiene plus veneers is costly too, so you should invest on something that will benefit you in the long haul.
