There are more options than ever before to address common aesthetic concerns, like stains or chips. However, dental bonding and porcelain veneers continue to rank among the most popular procedures. While both can fix a variety of imperfections, there are big differences between the two treatments. Here’s what you need to know to choose the right solution for your smile.
What is Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding offers a lot of bang for your buck because it provides quick results and it’s affordable. A cosmetic resin is applied to a tooth to fix minor issues. It is shaded to match the color of your enamel to blend in with your tooth structure.
- Uses: Dental bonding is a great option to resolve stains, chips, cracks, decay, and exposed tooth roots.
- Cost: Bonding is among the most affordable cosmetic treatments. In some situations, it can be covered by your dental insurance.
- Lifespan: Many factors affect the lifespan of dental bonding, but it often lasts for 5 to 10 years before needing to be replaced.
Dental bonding is minimally invasive, and you don’t have to worry about a long recovery. After cleaning your teeth, your dentist will apply a weak acid to open the pores in your enamel. It’s rinsed from your tooth before applying the bonding material, which is molded into the ideal shape and hardened using a special dental light.
What are Porcelain Veneers?
A veneer is a thin shell bonded to the front surface of a tooth to improve its color, size, and shape. Bonding them to the teeth visible when smiling corrects many issues at once. Veneers are made of porcelain to provide natural-looking results.
- Uses: Veneers can be used to cover stains, chips, cracks, and gaps between teeth.
- Cost: Most dental insurances will not pay for veneers, but they can be the most cost-effective option to address several issues because you won’t need multiple procedures.
- Lifespan: veneers are proven to last for a decade or longer with the right aftercare, like brushing and flossing.
After your teeth are cleaned, your dentist will remove a small amount of enamel to ensure your veneers sit flush on your teeth. They’ll take an impression of your mouth to send to the dental lab, where they will craft your veneers to meet your exact specifications. Your dentist will bond temporary veneers to your teeth to protect them while you wait. In a couple of weeks, the lab will send your veneers back to your dentist and you’ll return to have them applied.
Which is the Best Option for You?
No two mouths or situations are identical. You will require a consultation with your cosmetic dentist to determine which procedure is right for you. They’ll examine your mouth and learn more about your concerns to help you make the best investment to reach your goals.
About Dr. Brian Ferguson
Dr. Ferguson earned his dental degree at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine and has regularly pursued continuing education in many specialties, like cosmetic dentistry and oral surgery. He is a proud member of the American Dental Association. If you’re ready to improve your smile, request an appointment through our website or call (253) 289-6044.
