Clip-On veneers vs Porcelain Veneers

If you're looking to improve the look of your smile, there are a few options to choose from. Veneers are a wonderful way to achieve the smile you've always wanted or to fix an imperfection.

If you're unhappy with your smile but don't want to go through extensive dental work, clip-on veneers like Instasmile may be the right option for you. If you are prepared to pay for significant dental work, then porcelain veneers may be a good option. The procedure that is best for you ultimately depends on several things, such as how much time and money you are willing to spend, your desired appearance, and your lifestyle.

Not sure if Instasmile or porcelain veneers are right for you? Here's what to consider.

What Is Instasmile?

Instasmile veneers attach to your existing teeth, giving you a perfect smile in seconds. The veneers are designed to clip on over your existing teeth without the use of any bonding agents or adhesives. These unique smile-enhancers are available in a variety of colors and styles to suit your individual needs, and they can be clipped on and removed as needed.

Instasmile can help correct stained, missing, broken, chipped, or gapped teeth to create a cohesive, perfect smile without the need for extensive dental surgery. 

Instasmile offers a unique, comfortable solution that doesn't require any shaving or filing of your natural teeth- and it won't damage your existing teeth either. These veneers are non-permanent clip-on alternatives that can be fitted and removed when you like. 

What Are Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain veneers are tooth-shaped covers that go over the entire front surface of your natural teeth. The veneers are made from a thin shell of porcelain that's contoured and cemented over the front side of your teeth.

Keep in mind that not all porcelain veneers are created using porcelain. Some may be made from resin or other composite material. However, porcelain is still the most popular. 

Preparing your teeth for porcelain veneers looks a lot different than preparing your teeth for clip-on veneers. This is a multiple-step process.

First, your dentist will need to file down your existing teeth to fit the veneer over the tooth's front surface, including your natural enamel.

Then, the dentist creates impressions of your teeth and sends them off to a lab that makes porcelain veneers. You'll be fitted with temporary veneers to wear in the meantime.

Finally, your dentist will apply your finished set of veneers using adhesive glue. Porcelain veneers are not reversible. 

How Long Do They Last?

Composite veneers have a lifespan of anywhere from 5 to 7 years.

Instasmile dental veneers don't have an expiration date. The lifespan largely depends on how well you take care of the veneers. The better you care for them, the longer they will last.

Porcelain veneers can last between 10 and 15 years with proper care. Porcelain dental veneers are susceptible to breaking, cracking, and chipping, which can happen anytime during their lifespan. 

How to Maintain Veneers?

Both types of veneer teeth need to be adequately maintained. 

Instasmile veneers need to be brushed with a soft brush before you go to bed. There's no need to soak your clip-on veneers in mouthwash. You can allow your veneers to air dry or gently dry them with a soft cloth. Be sure to maintain your natural teeth by brushing twice daily, flossing, and using mouthwash. You can eat and drink normally with Instasmile.

You can use a soft toothbrush to clean porcelain veneers and floss around the veneers and bridges. Porcelain veneers can stain just like your natural teeth can, and there's a much higher risk of breakage with porcelain, so you want to be extra cautious. Finally, since your natural teeth are covered, you'll want to use a mouthwash rinse to remove bacteria that lead to tooth decay. 

Can You Remove Porcelain Veneers?

You can not remove porcelain veneers. This is because enamel on your teeth has been removed and the porcelain veneers are glued to your existing teeth. The only time you'll ever have your porcelain veneers removed is when you're getting a new set at your dentist's office. 

On the other hand, you can easily remove clip-on veneers.

With Instasmile, you don't have to change anything about your natural teeth. Your smile is instantly restored when you put in the removable veneers. If you're looking for a way to improve your smile without making a lifelong commitment, this is the better alternative.

The Cost of Instasmile Versus Porcelain Veneers

One of the main differences between these two options is their cost; porcelain veneers are significantly more expensive than Instasmile.

Porcelain veneers can cost anywhere from $925 to $2,500 per tooth. If you're looking to correct cosmetic issues on several teeth, a full set can range between $10,000 and $20,000. Instasmile is a more cost-effective choice to achieve similar results or damage to your existing teeth. Instasmile clip-on veneers start at $400 for a complete top or bottom set. 

The dentist may recommend a teeth whitening treatment before receiving veneers, depending on your practice. In-office professional teeth whitening can cost between $500 to $1,000 per visit. 

Final Thoughts: Instasmile Versus Porcelain Veneers 

Still unsure which dental veneers are best for you? Here's a quick rundown. 

Instasmile is a non-invasive, quick, and cost-effective way to get a perfect smile. clip-on veneers are not permanent, so if still unsure or not ready to make a life-long commitment, it's best to go with a clip-on smile. 

Porcelain veneers are best if you're looking for a permanent smile solution. You can fix flaws like crooked, discolored, or gapped teeth, but consider that porcelain veneers are not the best for replacing missing teeth. Additionally, if you lack enamel, the veneer will not have enough surface to maintain a strong bond.

Have you made a decision about your smile? Learn more about Instasmile and clip-on veneers here.