Dental veneers are thin covers that are placed over a tooth to mask chips or to fill in a gap. They’re also a good option for people with stained teeth that don’t respond to teeth whitening solutions.

There are two types of dental veneers — porcelain or composite resin. Neither kind is objectively better, but each have their advantages and drawbacks.

Porcelain veneers are strong and long lasting. They are also made from a mold of the affected tooth before being bonded over the tooth. Before the veneer can be applied, a small amount of enamel is removed from where the veneer will be bonded.

Composite resin veneers are less expensive than porcelain veneers, and while they may not last as long, they are easily fixed. They can also be applied in one visit as the dentist applies the material directly to the tooth without a mold. Once molded, a light is shined over the veneer to harden it and bond it to the tooth. These veneers also require a little less enamel to be removed before application.