Porcelain vs. Composite Veneers: Which Is Right for You?

Your smile is one of the first things people notice, and veneers can transform it dramatically. So, which type is the right choice for you?

At The Dental Anesthesia Center in St. Louis, we offer both options and help patients make the best decision based on their goals, budget, lifestyle, and long-term dental health. Whether you’re dealing with stained, chipped, or uneven teeth—or want a brighter, more uniform smile—veneers may be the perfect solution.

📞 Schedule a Consultation to take the next step toward the confident, radiant smile you deserve.

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The Dental Anesthesia Center: Sedation and Sleep Dentistry

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Whitney S.

I cannot say enough wonderful things about The Dental Anesthesia Center and Dr. Thoms. My 7-year-old, who has autism, recently had dental work done here and the experience exceeded expectations. The staff was incredibly kind, patient, and understanding of his needs. They took the time to make him and us feel comfortable, never rushed, and explained everything. I am so grateful for this office and the team that made my son's dental care possible. I would recommend The Dental Anesthesia Center and Dr Thoms to any parent, especially those with children who have special needs. They truly go above and beyond. ❤️

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your thoughtful review and kind words! We’re truly grateful for your trust in our team and Dr. Thoms. Knowing your visit was a positive and comfortable experience means the world to us — it’s exactly what we strive for with every patient and family. 💙

Joy H.

Very patient with elderly patients. Very good experience.

Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing your feedback! We’re pleased to know the visit was a positive experience.

Carla B.

My son has been a patient of Dr Michael Hoffman since he was 5 years old. He is now 21 years old. My son has diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder and therefore I am cautious of who I select as a treatment provider. Dr. Hoffman’s office is professional, kind and I know they have his best interest at heart. I highly recommend Dr. Hoffman and staff to anyone seeking dental care.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and recommendation! We truly appreciate your trust in our team over the years.

Paul

Super experience. Gentle and empathetic. All round care is great. Staff are wonderful.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind review! We’re so glad you had a great experience with our team.

Nancy S.

We are forever grateful for Dr Hoffman and his wonderful staff for having the vision of how to get necessary dental work done for patients who are dealing with autism and cannot tolerate it without dental anesthesia. We have been taking our adult daughter there once a year for the last four years. Thanks to Dr Hoffman’s vast knowledge and expertise, our daughter has been able to get wisdom teeth removed, cavities filled, teeth cleaned and detailed X-rays to know exactly what needed done. The Dental Anesthesia Center is a great service to the community. Thank you so much for helping us.

Response from the owner:hank you so much for your thoughtful review and kind words about our team! We truly appreciate your trust in us and are honored to provide care in a way that helps make dental treatment more comfortable and accessible for all patients. Your feedback means a great deal to our entire staff.

🦷 What Are Dental Veneers?

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of teeth. They improve the appearance of teeth that are:

• Discolored or stained
• Worn down or chipped
• Uneven or irregularly shaped
• Gapped or slightly misaligned

🥇 Porcelain Veneers

Benefits:

• Natural Look: Mimics the translucency of real enamel beautifully.
• Stain Resistance: Porcelain resists stains better than composite, making it ideal for coffee or wine lovers.
• Durability: With proper care, they can last 10–15 years or longer.
• Strength: Stronger and more resilient to chips than composite.

Considerations:

• Cost: Generally more expensive than composite veneers.
• Time: Requires at least two visits—one for prepping, another for bonding.
• Irreversible: Requires more enamel removal, making it a permanent change.

🥈 Composite Veneers

Benefits:

• Cost-Effective: Typically less expensive than porcelain veneers.
• Faster Results: Often completed in one visit—great for last-minute smile makeovers!
• Less Invasive: Requires minimal enamel removal.

Considerations:

• Durability: Generally lasts 5–7 years, and is more prone to staining.
• Appearance: While still attractive, they may not have the same lifelike luster as porcelain.
• Maintenance: May need touch-ups or polishing over time.

So, Which Should You Choose?

👩‍⚕️ What About Patients with Dental Anxiety or Special Needs?

At The Dental Anesthesia Center, we understand that dental procedures—even cosmetic ones—can be overwhelming for many. That’s why we offer:

• Sedation dentistry, including oral sedation, IV, and general anesthesia
• A safe, calming environment for patients with autism, sensory issues, or severe anxiety
• Customized appointments for individuals with disabilities or complex medical needs

You don’t have to feel nervous about enhancing your smile—we make it comfortable every step of the way.