Should I Choose Dental Bonding or Veneers?
Many times we don’t end up with the teeth of our dreams but there are options to change that. Both dental bonding and porcelain veneers courtesy of our Washington, MI, cosmetic dentist can provide you with a seamless smile you can be proud of. But which one is right for you?
Bonding is faster and a more affordable cosmetic dental procedure but veneers can be a durable solution for . Dr. Lesinski can evaluate your specific situation and help you to make a decision that you’ll be happy with.
Here is how dental bonding and veneers compare to each other.
Natural Results
The last thing you want is to undergo a dental procedure only to have the results look out of place and not at all natural. Well, there is no need to worry as our experienced cosmetic dentist is here to help.
Dental bonding can easily correct gaps, cracks, chips, tooth discoloration, or teeth that are irregularly shaped. The is to be minimally invasive. In fact, the original tooth will not change dramatically in its appearance.
Dr. Lesinski will carefully repair the imperfection by applying tooth-colored composite resin to the surface of your tooth. No one will know by looking at you that you ever had cracked or spaced teeth. It’s important to remember that bonding is best suited for minor repairs. We may suggest alternative treatment for larger restorations.
Made out of porcelain instead of resin, dental are very thin, tooth-colored “shells”. They are permanently attached to the front of teeth to mask undesirable issues. Dr. Lesinski will use a shade guide to ensure your new smile is natural and aesthetically pleasing.
Amount of Enamel Removed
The application of veneers requires a more intensive cosmetic process. This often equates to the removal of more natural tooth enamel. If this were a contest, bonding would win over veneers as it requires the least amount of enamel taken off.
Tooth enamel is what you see covering the outside of your teeth. Made up of a high percentage of minerals that enable its strength, enamel protects the more sensitive layers of teeth underneath.
When enamel is removed for veneers, your teeth are permanently altered and changes are irreversible. Enamel does not grow back. Bonding, on the other hand, maintains more of your natural tooth structure while still fixing unwanted problems.
Time and Cost
A major advantage of bonding is how little time it takes to complete the procedure. Depending on how many teeth are bonded, it will take about 30 minutes to an hour.
Compared to other similar options, cosmetic bonding is also much less expensive. Veneers can be pricey and a bit excessive if you’re only looking to close a small gap or fix a chipped tooth. If that’s the case, bonding may instead be the right option for you.
Veneers also may take multiple appointments to complete. Dr. Lesinski will first need to take an impression of the teeth and send that with the desired shade to a dental lab for fabrication. It may be a few weeks before your permanent veneers arrive for placement so temporary veneers are created for you to wear in the meantime.
Durability and Resistance to Stains
Where bonding finishes first in procedure time and cost, veneers are a longer-lasting and stain-resistant option. Though both will last many years with proper care, porcelain proves to be stronger than composite resin and is not as easily discolored.
Whichever you end up choosing, be sure to brush at least twice a day and floss daily to maintain appearance. Neglecting oral hygiene can lead to deterioration and other complications.
We Can Help Change Your Smile for the Better
The idea of altering the appearance of your teeth can seem daunting, but the procedures are actually quite straightforward. Our , can sit down with you and discuss your options in detail. Call Washington Family Dental today at (586) 752-4545 or contact us online.
This blog has been updated.