Porcelain veneers help fix teeth imperfections like chips, discoloration, and gaps. When applied, they encapsulate the front of the tooth and help restore evenness and improve the appearance of your smile. While porcelain veneers are often the go-to standard for cosmetic dentistry, another innovative technique known as Bioclear can be just as effective.

What do porcelain veneers and Bioclear treat?

Porcelain veneers and Bioclear treat similar issues, including gaps between the teeth, discoloration, cracks and chips, and normal wear and tear. They can help resize smaller teeth to better align with the other teeth in your mouth. 

Many people turn to porcelain veneers or Bioclear for cosmetic issues, but they can provide dental health benefits, too. People at high risk of enamel erosion can protect their teeth with porcelain veneers or Bioclear, helping to avoid future dental problems like periodontal disease and cavities.

The following are five factors to consider when you are choosing between the Bioclear technique and porcelain veneers.

1. Durability of Porcelain Veneers and Bioclear

Porcelain veneers are extremely durable. You can treat them just as you would your regular teeth, chewing food and brushing your teeth the same way as if you didn’t have veneers. They’re also extraordinarily stain resistant, so as long as you treat them right, you won’t need to worry about discoloration from drinks like coffee or red wine. 

Bioclear veneers are also highly durable. As with porcelain veneers, you won’t need to take extreme care when chewing food. However, Bioclear veneers may not have the same stain resistance level as porcelain veneers because they’re made from a different material—acrylic resin.

2. Process of Getting Porcelain Veneers vs. Bioclear

Porcelain veneers require the dentist to shave a small amount of  existing enamel from the tooth—a procedure that can feel quite invasive. These veneers also require a long-term commitment; once they wear down, you’ll need to replace them or you may eventually experience painful tooth sensitivity.

Bioclear veneers don’t require the removal of the tooth’s enamel. Instead, the veneer is placed over the top of the tooth, causing no damage to its structure. Because of this less invasive process, you won’t need to replace Bioclear veneers in the future if you decide you don’t want them anymore. 

If you already have sensitive teeth or gums, Bioclear may be the better option for you. It’s also less expensive, so if you want to reduce your costs, choosing Bioclear is probably the way to go.

3. Aesthetics of Porcelain and Bioclear Veneers

Both porcelain and Bioclear veneers address the same problems. However, because they are made of different materials, their appearance is not the same.

Porcelain veneers look similar to the enamel on your teeth. They will take on the translucent appearance of your natural teeth, making it difficult for the average person to notice you’ve had cosmetic dental work done. 

Bioclear veneers are made from an acrylic resin. They won’t have the same translucent look as porcelain veneers, but your dentist can polish them to retain their shine. They’re also very natural looking.

4. Stain Resistance of Bioclear and Porcelain

Porcelain veneers are completely stain resistant because they’re made from porcelain. You won’t need to worry about future discoloration on the teeth that have porcelain veneers. However, you will need to take care of the teeth that don’t have veneers since they are still susceptible to stains. 

Bioclear veneers are also stain resistant, but the resin from the veneers can eventually show discoloration, especially if you regularly consume coffee or other items known to stain teeth. However, you can polish your Bioclear veneers to reduce or eliminate any stains that become visible.

5. Longevity of Porcelain and Bioclear Veneers

Porcelain veneers typically last ten years, or even longer. If you want a long-term fix for crooked, misshapen teeth, porcelain veneers may be the option you’re looking for.

Bioclear veneers last up to five years, and sometimes a bit longer. However, they’re less expensive than porcelain veneers and don’t require the removal of the tooth’s enamel.

Veneers can provide you with a bright, new smile.

Damage to teeth is common, especially as you age. You may notice new gaps, stains, or crooked teeth that mar the appearance of your smile. If you want to address such issues, both porcelain and Bioclear veneers can repair the problems and give your teeth a better appearance. 

Once the dentist places your veneers, you’ll enjoy a brand-new smile. Most people love their veneers, whether they decide on porcelain or Bioclear. To learn more about porcelain and Bioclear veneers, schedule an appointment with Davis Family Dental Care. Our Bedford dentistry specialists can help you decide which veneer option is appropriate for you.