In this article, we discuss a common question: what is the difference between dental laminates and dental veneers?
What Is the Difference Between Dental Laminates and Veneers?
While dental veneers and laminates can solve similar cosmetic issues, they differ in application method, durability, and thickness. Let us compare these two options in more detail.
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers look like thin porcelain “shells.” A veneer covers the entire front side of a tooth. To apply dental veneers, some tooth preparation is necessary: a part of the tooth’s enamel is filed down to make room for the veneer to fit comfortably among other teeth. This process makes the dental veneer procedure irreversible, as our teeth cannot survive without enamel. As a result, once you get dental veneers, you will have to wear them or their alternatives, such as crowns, for the rest of your life.
Dental veneers are fairly durable and stain-resistant and can last for up to 10 years with proper care. Veneers can effectively solve a variety of dental cosmetic issues, including:
- Stains and discoloration
- Minor gaps between the teeth
- Misshapen teeth
- Uneven teeth length
- Cracks and chips
Dental Laminates
Dental laminates are thinner than porcelain veneers (around 0.3mm), which allows for less tooth preparation and enamel removal. This fact often makes laminates a less intrusive and reversible option.
While dental laminates can mask cosmetic issues similar to dental veneers, they are thinner than veneers and better suited for minor defects, such as stains and discoloration. They are typically not suitable for major dental repairs. Additionally, laminates tend to be less stain-resistant and durable than veneers.
Should I Choose Laminates or Veneers?
We recommend considering dental laminates in the following cases:
- You do not want to commit to having a cosmetic dental restoration for life
- You need to mask minor cosmetic issues, such as teeth staining or discoloration
Dental veneers are better suited for people who:
- Need to restore chipped or cracked teeth.
- Require teeth shape or size alterations.
- Do not mind a more intrusive procedure.
Are There Alternatives to Laminates and Veneers?
There are several alternative procedures that we recommend exploring if neither veneers nor laminates sound suitable for you:
- Orthodontic treatments help achieve not only cosmetic benefits, such as closing gaps between the teeth and making teeth appear more even, but also offer long-term oral and general health benefits. Even though an orthodontic treatment can take 8 to 18 months, you will enjoy the results for the rest of your life without needing to repeat the procedure every 5 to 10 years, as is the case with veneers and laminates.
- Professional dental cleanings and fluoride treatments can remove surface staining caused by plaque and tartar buildup and strengthen your enamel, making your smile look naturally healthy.
- The teeth whitening procedure is another effective way to brighten your teeth and remove stains and discoloration. Even though it has to be repeated every 1 to 2 years, it is less intrusive than dental veneers.
- Dental bonding can mask stains, cracks, and chips, and does not require extensive tooth preparation or enamel removal.
These procedures can be combined to achieve optimal cosmetic improvements along with oral health benefits.
Make an Appointment at Smile World Dental
If you are considering cosmetic procedures, such as laminates, veneers, bonding, or teeth whitening, do not hesitate to make an appointment with a top-rated dentist at Smile World Dental. We are looking forward to your visit.
