Porcelain vs. Resin: What type of smile design is best for you?
Porcelain vs. Resin
When someone decides to transform their smile, the first big question is: porcelain veneers or resin veneers?
Both options can improve dental aesthetics, but their characteristics, results, and durability are completely different.
At Smile Clear 3D Miami, we perform hundreds of smile designs every year, so today we explain which option is ideal for you based on your case.
What are porcelain veneers?
Porcelain veneers are ultra-thin shells created in a dental laboratory to cover the front surface of the tooth.
They are globally recognized as the most aesthetic, resistant, and durable option for a smile design.
Characteristics of porcelain
• Premium, highly resistant ceramic material (100% E-MAX)
• Replicates the shine, translucency, and depth of natural enamel
• Does not change color over time
• Does not absorb pigments
• Highly biocompatible (does not irritate the gums)
How are they made?
In clinics like Smile Clear 3D Miami, which have an in-house laboratory, veneers are designed and milled with digital equipment that guarantees:
• Maximum precision in shape and fit
• Exact color control
• Fast process (2 sessions)
• Facial aesthetic harmony
What Are Resin Veneers?
Resin veneers are created directly in the clinic using a composite material molded onto the tooth.
It is a faster and more affordable procedure, but also less stable and less natural-looking.
Deep Differences Between Porcelain and Resin
Resin
• Lasts 3 to 5 years
• Wears down faster
• Can fracture or chip more easily
• Requires periodic touch-ups
• Less natural because it reflects light differently
• May look more opaque over time
• Does not retain shine without frequent polishing
• Stains easily
• Changes color due to foods, drinks, and habits
• Requires frequent polishing to restore shine
Porcelain
• Lasts between 15 and 20 years
• Has resistance similar to natural enamel
• Does not scratch easily
• Better withstands biting, chewing, and the passage of time
• Almost perfectly reproduces the look of natural teeth
• Has optical depth (looks real, not flat)
• Maintains shine for decades
• Does not stain
• Maintains its original color for life
• Resistant to coffee, wine, cigarettes, and dark foods
Which Material Is Best for Your Smile Design?
The choice depends on your goals:
Porcelain is ideal if you want:
✔ High aesthetics
✔ 15–20 years of durability
✔ Natural-looking results
✔ Minimal maintenance
✔ Strength and stability
✔ A premium, personalized design
Resin is ideal if you want:
✔ A lower-cost option
✔ A temporary solution
✔ Small corrections
Want to know if your teeth qualify for porcelain or resin veneers?
Schedule your consultation at Smile Clear 3D Miami and receive an expert evaluation plus a digital simulation of your new smile.
