Many people turn to cosmetic dentistry to help improve their smiles. You might want to fix a chip in your tooth, brighten worn or stained teeth, or create a more professional look. The most common solutions to these dental concerns are dental bonding and dental veneers. But are both solutions equal when it comes to achieving the smile of your dreams?
One option, porcelain veneers, can be used to hide a discolored tooth, repair an injured tooth, or even cover several teeth to give them a white appearance that does not fade. Porcelain veneers are placed on your teeth by removing a bit of your original tooth and then attaching a wafer-thin porcelain material over the top. This procedure might take a couple of visits to get an accurate fit, but in the end, you will see a smooth, even look on your teeth.
An alternate choice for making cosmetic changes to your teeth is dental bonding. Dental bonding uses a resin placed on the tooth and then polished and shaped to create the desired look. Typically dental bonding can be completed in one visit.
There are pros and cons to each procedure, so here are some things to consider when deciding if dental bonding or porcelain veneers are the best fit for you:
Cost: Bonding has a smaller price tag than dental veneers because of the materials involved in the two procedures.
Appearance: Porcelain does not stain, whereas some dental bonding resins can stain.
Lifetime: Bonding typically does not last as long as veneers. Veneers can last as long as a lifetime, whereas bonding lasts 3-10 years.
Durability: Veneers are known for their durability. Bonding is usually recommended for back teeth that do not receive as much biting force.
Smile Goals: Some would say that cosmetic bonding is better for chipped or damaged teeth since it can be shaped like clay to fit your teeth. Depending on your goals, it is often best to use a combination of dental veneers and bonding. More minor treatments lend themselves to bonding, while more significant restorative cases might be better treated with veneers.
While dental veneers and dental bonding can help you tackle similar cosmetic dentistry concerns, it is best to consult with a professional to decide which one is best for you. Your professional can help you decide how to improve the look of your teeth by altering the shape, alignment, sizing, or shade.
If you are interested in learning more about dental veneers and bonding, reach out to Value Dental Care. Our trained staff is always ready to help you with all of your oral care needs. We offer high-quality care at affordable prices. Email us or call us today to schedule an appointment at our Spring Hill (352-684-1274) or Crystal River (352-794-6139) locations.
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