Dental Bonding and Porcelain Veneers: Two Options for a Beautiful Smile

Many of our patients yearn for a flawless smile. Correcting imperfections in the appearance of your teeth can help you feel more confident. Dental bonding and porcelain veneers are two cosmetic dentistry options we often explore with our patients. Both are common treatments for dental concerns, such as chipped teeth, cracks, gaps, and discoloration.

It’s helpful to understand the difference between dental bonding and porcelain veneers and why one cosmetic procedure may be a better option than the other, depending on your teeth and your circumstances.

What is Dental Bonding?

Dental bonding is a tooth-colored resin applied to the surface of the teeth that is cured with a light to harden the material. The resin is very durable and essentially becomes part of your teeth. Bonding provides natural-looking results that last up to 10 years, depending on the wear on your teeth.

Is Dental Bonding Right for You?

Dental bonding is a good option for patients who have discolored, cracked, or chipped teeth. It is also a good treatment for building up the enamel near exposed roots from receding gums. The composite resin used in bonding may chip, so you will want to avoid chewing ice or hard candy. It’s also less stain-resistant than porcelain, and it may become discolored over time from coffee and cigarettes.

What are Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are bonded to the tooth’s front surface. A mold is taken of the teeth, and the veneers are made in a lab before they are applied to the teeth. Porcelain veneers typically last longer than bonding. Studies show that veneers last between 10 to 20 years.

Are Porcelain Veneers Right for You?

Veneers are a great option for patients whose tooth enamel is deeply stained or worn, and patients who have gaps and cracks. The natural tooth should have minor damage so that the veneer can be applied to a good foundation. A porcelain crown may be a better treatment for severely damaged teeth.

Other Factors to Consider When Choosing Dental Bonding or Porcelain Veneers

There are other factors to consider when deciding between bonding or veneers:

• Cost – Tooth bonding is less expensive than veneers since veneers are custom made and require more than one visit.
• Tooth preparation – Bonding requires no preparation; however, veneers require that a little enamel be removed from your teeth before they are applied.
• The time required for treatment – Bonding can be applied in one visit, whereas veneers require two to three visits.
• Durability – Porcelain is more durable than the resin used in bonding, so veneers typically last longer with proper care.

Dental veneers are generally a more long-term option for cosmetic dental treatment. Your dentist will discuss the pros and cons of cosmetic bonding and veneers to help you make the right decision.

Bonding and Veneers in our Palm Bay, FL Dental Office

Ultimate Smile Design in Palm Bay, FL, offers both dental bonding and porcelain veneers. After a thorough examination of your teeth, our cosmetic dentists will be happy to advise you on the best options for improving the appearance of your smile. Contact us for an appointment today!