Dental Bonding
Dentists may also refer to this as composite bonding because they use a composite resin to repair or improve the condition of teeth and people’s overall smiles. The resin is a white, natural tooth colored material that the dentist can apply to the surface of your tooth to repair holes from removed decay, change the color, shape, size, or spacing of teeth. The composite resin is a putty like substance the dentist molds into the proper shape and then sets into place by using a high intensity light, like an ultraviolet light or a laser.
Some people may say that they’ve had bonding done which has left them with teeth that look healthier without unsightly metal restorations or costly orthodontics. In fact, it is one of the least expensive cosmetic dentistry procedures that a person can have. Not all dental bonding procedures are cosmetic, but it can be used to give you the smile you’ve always wanted.
Dental Veneers
When someone tells you that they have caps on their teeth, they are often referring to a ceramic dental veneer. The medical grade ceramic forms a thin layer that is adhered to the surface of the tooth. The end result is very natural looking and address problems with crooked teeth, cracked teeth, worn enamel, uneven spacing between teeth, and discolored teeth. Dental veneers can give you the bright white smile that does not stain or fade over time that you know will leave you more confident. In order for veneers to be placed, some of your tooth will need to be removed to accommodate the veneer. Most of the time, it is not painful when the dentist places your veneers snuggly in your mouth. It often takes more than one visit but they can last a life time when they are accurately placed and properly cared for.
Should I Choose Porcelain Veneers or Dental Bonding?
There is not one answer when people are looking to decide between porcelain veneers and dental bonding, but there are three factors to consider before making a final choice.
1. Cost
The material used for veneers is porcelain and it costs more than the composite resin used in dental bonding. Veneers are designed to last a lifetime so you will only need to pay for them once, whereas dental bonding will need to be replaced every three to ten years. If you are looking to address staining that has not been able to be improved by professional whitening, then veneers will be a better choice to get you the results you are looking to achieve. If you are looking to address minor chips or small gaps, then dental bonding would be a great place to start.
2. Appearance
Dental bonding and porcelain veneers are designed to be indistinguishable in shape and color from your natural teeth. Veneers are made from a stain resistant material but dental bonding resin can darken over time.
3. Durability
Dental bonding is designed to last between three to ten years but dental veneers can last between ten to twenty five years.