Composite veneers: what are they, the procedure and cost

For those who want to improve the appearance of their teeth, composite veneers are a versatile, effective and minimally invasive solution. Composite veneers (also know as resin veneers) can cover imperfections on your teeth and improve their overall appearance.

In this article, we will explore in detail what composite veneers are, their uses, the different types available and the materials used, the procedure involved and how to care for them. We’ll also look into the pros and cons of composite veneers, as well as their cost and how long they last. Discover how these thin veneers can be the key to dazzling teeth.

What are composite veneers?

Composite veneers are thin shells made of a mixture of acrylic resin and ceramic. Unlike other types of veneers, resin veneers are placed directly on the tooth, in a way that’s minimally invasive.

The material used for composite veneers mimic the colour of the teeth quite closely, making them quite discreet. Injection-moulded composite veneers are custom-designed to cover the front of teeth, improving the aesthetic appearance by correcting defects such as discolouration, irregularities in shape and size, or gaps between teeth.

What are composite veneers used for?

Injection-moulded composite veneers serve as an aesthetic solution for covering minor dental imperfections. For example, composite veneers can be a solution for small teeth, worn teeth, slightly crooked teeth or overlapping teeth, or to close small diastemas. They can also be used to improve the appearance of stained teeth or teeth with slight crowding.

In addition to concealing these minor dental problems, composite resin veneers also provide a solution for those who wish to have whiter and more uniform teeth.

Types of composite veneers

There are different types of composite resin veneers according to the material used and the procedure for placing them on the teeth. Below we’ll explore the most common types.

Types of composite veneers according to placement: direct vs indirect

First of all, we’ll explore how composite veneers can be placed on the teeth and the differences between direct vs indirect placement.

Direct composite veneers

With direct composite veneers, the composite resin is applied directly to your teeth. This allows the orthodontist to directly sculpt and shape the composite resin veneers to create a more natural look.

The procedure is minimally invasive and the teeth require just some light etching before the composite resin is applied.

Indirect composite veneers

With indirect composite veneers, the teeth are prepared in the same way as with direct composite veneers. However, the veneers will be custom-made, usually in a dental laboratory, and will be applied to your teeth using adhesive.

Indirect composite veneers tend to be slightly more durable than direct composite veneers, meaning they often tend to have a higher cost.

Types of composite veneers according to the material and their properties

Secondly, we’ll take a look at the different types of composite veneers according to the material used and their unique properties.

Condensable composite veneers

This type of composite veneer has a dense consistency and is easy to handle. The consistency of the material for this type of composite veneer makes it ideal for sculpting fine details and offers long-lasting strength, but the aesthetic results are not the best, so they are not recommended for use on anterior teeth.

Hybrid composite veneers

Hybrid composite veneers combine characteristics of different types of composite resin, which brings a balanced blend of strength and aesthetics due to its chemical composition, consisting of macro and microparticles. This material is versatile and suitable for a variety of cases.

Flowable resin-based composite veneers

Flowable resin-based composite veneers are in a liquid state and therefore more malleable. Flowable resin veneers are made of composite microparticles. As these veneers are more fluid in composition, they are ideal for making subtle improvements and for patients seeking a less invasive solution. However, it should be noted that they are more fragile than other types of resin veneers.

Microhybrid composite veneers

With smaller filler particles, this type of composite veneer offers a more natural appearance and better matches the translucency of natural teeth. This type of composite is one of the latest developments in restorative dentistry and is both durable and easy to polish, characteristics that are often difficult to find in the same material.

Nanocomposite resin veneers

This type of resin veneer uses nanotechnology for extremely small filler particles, which improves both the appearance and the durability of the veneers, making them an ideal solution for added strength and enhanced aesthetic.

The procedure for adding composite veneers

Now we’ll explain step by step the procedure on how composite or resin veneers are placed on the teeth. Normally, if no prior dental treatment is needed, the placement can be done within 1-2 sessions, as they are easier to place than ceramic veneers.

1. Initial consultation:

A dental consultation is carried out to determine whether the patient is suitable for the treatment and to discuss their expectations.

2. Placement of the veneers:

The placement of composite veneers depends on whether they are applied directly or indirectly.

If the placement is direct, the composite veneers are modelled directly onto the patient's tooth or teeth. If indirect, the veneers are pre-fabricated in the dental office or in a dental laboratory. To place them, the rest of the teeth must be isolated to avoid contamination and the composite must be placed and shaped to achieve the desired results in terms of shape or colour.

3. Adjustments and polishing:

Once the veneers are in place, any final adjustments are made as necessary, and the veneers are polished to achieve a smooth and shiny finish.

How to care for composite veneers

Although composite resin veneers are easier to fit than other types of veneers, they are more prone to deterioration and staining, so they need to be maintained carefully. Here are some tips on how to clean and care for composite veneers properly:

1. Rigorous oral hygiene:

Regular brushing, flossing and mouthwash are essential in order to maintain oral health and the durability of your veneers.

2. Avoid foods that can stain teeth:

Some foods or drinks can stain your teeth. Drinks you should avoid are wine, coffee and tea. Foods that can stain teeth include dark chocolate, berries, curry and soy sauce.

3. Avoid bad habits, such as smoking:

Smoking can affect the colour of veneers, so we recommend reducing how much you smoke or ideally stopping smoking completely.

4. Regular dental check-ups:

Regular dental check-ups are important to ensure that veneers are kept in good condition and adjustments are made where necessary. Your dental specialist will determine how often you should come in for a cleaning or polish so that the veneers are kept in optimal condition.

5. Avoid using too much force with your teeth:

To avoid breaking or wearing down the veneers, we recommend avoiding opening your mouth to wide when chewing (such as when eating an apple or a sandwich) or biting your nails.

Pros and cons of composite veneers

Composite veneers have more benefits than drawbacks, but we want to outline both the pros and cons so you can make an informed decision.

The benefits of composite veneers

1. They provide a natural look:

The first benefit of composite veneers is that they mimic the appearance of natural teeth, offering impressive and natural-looking results. Composite is a material that blends in very well with the natural tooth colour.

2. Minimally invasive process:

Requiring little or no tooth etching, resin veneers are a less invasive procedure compared to other veneers.

3. They are easily repaired:

In the event of damage, composite veneers can be easily repaired without having to redo the entire treatment. In addition, the repair process can be done in the same clinic.

4. Treatment in few sessions:

Another benefit of composite veneers is that their placement process can be carried out in just 1-2 sessions.

5. Reversibility of treatment:

As opposed to porcelain veneers, composite veneers do not require a lot of preparation of the natural teeth, usually just some light etching. Therefore, they can be worn for a while and then removed without the need for immediate re-fitting.

6. Cost:

Composite veneers are usually more affordable than other types of veneers, as we will highlight below when we explore the cost of resin veneers.

The cons of composite veneers

1. Less durable compared to other options:

One of the cons of composite resin veneers is that they can have a slightly shorter lifespan in comparison with more durable options like porcelain veneers. On average, composite veneers typically last between 5 and 10 years.

2. Possible wear over time:

One of the main disadvantages of composite veneers is that they may experience slight wear over time and therefore require eventual replacement if they are not cared for properly.

How long do composite veneers last?

If you're asking yourself, “how long do composite veneers last?”, you can find out here. The lifespan of composite veneers can vary, but with the correct care, they can last between 5 and 10 years. The longevity of composite veneers may vary depending on the maintenance and care taken.

How much are composite veneers?

The cost of composite resin veneers, as we have already mentioned in the list of benefits, is often lower than other types of veneers. The cost depends on the number of veneers required, the size of the tooth, the location of the dental clinic, the type of composite veneer chosen and the technology used.

The cost of composite veneers in the UK can range from £200 to £500 per tooth.

Show off your teeth with confidence with Impress

At Impress we offer a wide range of treatments, including composite veneers, that focus on improving both the appearance of the teeth and the oral health of our patients. Whether you are looking for orthodontic treatment to improve your oral health, or if you are interested in dental veneers to improve the appearance of your teeth, you can contact us and we will let you know what services are currently available at your nearest Impress clinic. To do so, book an appointment online, by phone on +44 20 3808 1072, or through WhatsApp.