Porcelain veneers: the difference between composite and ceramic, and how much they cost in Albania

Dental veneers are thin shells applied to the tooth surface to correct colour, shape and alignment. There are two main types: composite and ceramic (porcelain). The right choice depends on your clinical case, aesthetic expectations and budget.

Composite veneers

Composite resin is applied directly to the tooth and shaped by the dentist in a single appointment.

• Pros: Lower cost, completed in one session, reversible, easy to repair.
• Cons: Shorter lifespan (5-7 years), tends to yellow over time, less luminous than ceramic.
• Cost in Albania: €80–120 per tooth | In Italy/UK: €300–500

Ceramic (porcelain) veneers

Custom-made in a laboratory. Require slight tooth preparation and two appointments.

• Pros: Last 15-20 years, stain-resistant, natural luminous appearance identical to enamel, 100% biocompatible.
• Cons: Higher cost, two appointments needed, partially irreversible.
• Cost in Albania: €200–280 per tooth | In Italy/UK: €700–1,200

Real example

10 ceramic veneers in Italy: €8,000–12,000. In Albania with DolceSmile: €2,000–2,800. You save between €5,200 and €9,200 — for an identical result.