You want to improve the appearance of your teeth and have heard about dental veneers and laminates. We have prepared an inclusive guide for you to easily understand these terms.

Are laminates the same as veneers in dentistry?

Laminates and dental veneers are often used interchangeably. However, there is a slight confusion of meaning. Veneers and laminates are used to cover the appearance of fractures, cracks and the yellow colour of teeth. The difference between them is that laminates are thinner. In other words, all laminates are veneers, but not all veneers are laminates.

What is dental laminate?

Dental laminates are a layer made of porcelain, known for their thinner structure than veneers, and applied to the front surface of the tooth. Since dental laminates are very thin, it is sufficient to shave the teeth minimally. Laminates are a little more delicate and require care during use. Since it is very thin and reflects light very well, it imitates natural teeth very well. However, they may not be sufficient to cover dark yellow colours or fractures and cracks.

What are dental veneers?

Dental veneers are thin layers that are bonded to the front surface of the teeth, hiding dental defects and allowing the teeth to be repaired. It is applied to stained, broken, cracked or misaligned teeth. It makes the teeth look symmetrical and in the same colour tone. It is a restorative treatment, has a lifespan of 15 years, and, thanks to their advanced structure, they are very similar to natural teeth.

What are the types of dental veneers?

1. Porcelain veneers

Porcelain veneers are shells made by utilising the durable and translucent structure of porcelain. The most important advantage of porcelain veneers is that it is one of the closest coating types to natural teeth. At the same time, it is sufficient to make a correction between 0.5 and 1 mm on the teeth.  

2. Emax veneers

Emax veneers are made of a glassy but very strong material called lithium disilicate. These veneers are durable and strong, cover defects well and have a long service life. The substances it contains make the veneers look more transparent and make them look aesthetic. The biggest disadvantage of these veneers compared to other types is the price.

3. Composite resin veneers

Composite veneers are made of a tooth-coloured composite material similar to a dental filling. They are not in the form of a shell but are moulded on the tooth. There is no need for trimming; composite veneers can be easily removed when they wear out, and there is no need for replacement. At the same time, if the veneers are damaged over time, they are easily repaired and do not need to be replaced. It is not resistant to colour change. It has a service life of 5-6 years.

4. Lumineers (No-prep veneers)

Lumineers are a brand of no-prep veneers made of ultra-thin porcelain that cover the front surface of teeth to provide an aesthetic appearance. Unlike traditional veneers, Lumineers require little or no enamel removal. As a result, this makes it a reversible option without preparation. The treatment process is very fast due to the no-prep coating. Two visits to the dentist would be enough.

5. Zirconium veneers

Zirconium veneers are made of zirconium and are the strongest type of coating. Zirconium is used as both a crown and a veneer. These veneers can be applied on both front and back teeth. It has a life span of 15 years due to its very durable structure. It is also easily applied to teeth with very prominent dental defects and a dark yellow colour. It is one of the most popular choices of patients who demand both strength and durability and aesthetic appearance.

Dental veneers/laminates pros and cons

Pros

Veneers and laminates are a very robust, aesthetic and accessible dental treatment. These treatments are long-lasting, and patients pay more attention to their dental care in order to maintain them. As a result, overall oral and dental health improves. Since it provides a more beautiful smile, patients feel better in the social environment. It provides the development of self-confidence.

Cons

Veneers and laminates are somewhat costly dental treatments. However, veneers and laminates are very affordable and accessible in Turkey.

The preparation process applied during veneer treatment causes short-term tooth sensitivity and pain in the teeth. Finally, tooth preparation, even at a minimal level, is the disadvantage of veneers and laminates. For this reason, it is not possible to return to natural teeth after these treatments.

Dental laminate vs dental veneers: How long do they last?

Depending on the use of individuals, dental laminates are used for 10-15 years, while dental veneers are used for up to 15-20 years. If teeth grinding and biting hard objects are avoided and dental care is taken care of, dental veneers maintain their long life. Composite resin veneers have a shorter life (5-6 years) apart from other veneers.

Dental laminate vs dental veneers: Which treatment looks more natural?

Porcelain laminates mimic the translucency of natural tooth enamel very well, as they are approximately 0.2 to 0.3 mm thick. Laminates can be customised and matched to the colour and size of natural teeth.

Porcelain veneers are thicker than laminates and require more preparation on the tooth surface. They mimic the natural tooth well and do not look artificial.