Cosmetic Dentistry Guide
A clear, honest comparison of porcelain veneers and composite bonding — the two most requested cosmetic treatments at Portmore Dental — from Dr. Eben van der Walt, with over 25 years of restorative and cosmetic experience in Weybridge, Surrey.
| Consideration | Porcelain Veneers | Composite Bonding |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Custom lab-crafted porcelain | Tooth-coloured resin, sculpted chairside |
| Longevity | 10–15+ years | 4–8 years |
| Cost per tooth (guide) | £850–£1,200 | £250–£450 |
| Appointments | 2–3 visits | Usually 1 visit |
| Tooth preparation | Minimal enamel reshaping (irreversible) | Little to no removal (largely reversible) |
| Stain resistance | Excellent | Moderate — can pick up staining over time |
| Best for | Full smile makeovers, worn or discoloured teeth | Chips, gaps, small reshaping, single-tooth fixes |
| Repairability | Replaced if damaged | Easily polished or repaired chairside |
Prices are indicative and confirmed at your private consultation.
Premium, long-term smile transformations
A refined, lasting result when you want to transform multiple teeth.
Conservative, same-day cosmetic refinement
A conservative, budget-friendly option for smaller, targeted changes.
Porcelain veneers typically last 10–15 years or more with good care, while composite bonding usually lasts 4–8 years before needing repair or replacement.
Yes. Composite bonding is generally around a third of the cost of porcelain veneers per tooth, making it a popular option for smaller cosmetic changes.
In most cases yes — composite bonding usually requires little to no removal of natural tooth structure, whereas porcelain veneers involve minimal but permanent reshaping of the enamel.
Both can look highly natural in expert hands. Porcelain veneers offer superior translucency and stain resistance, while composite bonding is more easily adjusted chairside and repaired over time.
Absolutely. Many of Dr. Eben’s patients have a bespoke plan that uses porcelain veneers on prominent teeth and composite bonding elsewhere, balancing longevity, aesthetics and investment.
Book a private consultation with Dr. Eben van der Walt at Portmore Dental, Weybridge — and see exactly how veneers, bonding, or a bespoke combination could transform your smile.