What’s the Difference Between Dental Bonding and Veneers?

The goals and objectives of these cosmetic dental procedures are often the same; they are simply different methods to achieve the desired outcome. Both restoration procedures are different, though, including their costs and benefits.

With both methods, the goal is quite simple, and that is to make your teeth appear more aesthetically pleasing. Most dental procedures fall into one of two categories: the first having a health-focused objective, like correcting a cavity, infection, or plaque buildup, or the coordination of your bite alignment. The second is cosmetics, focusing on the aesthetic appearance of your teeth and gums while you smile. Your smile is an unappreciated asset that has a significant role in your unique personality and is also foundational in the establishment of your self-esteem and your self-confidence. If you have a chipped or cracked tooth, stained teeth, an undesirable gap between two front teeth, or a tooth that appears too long, both dental bonding and veneers will improve these cosmetic imperfections to improve your smile. The following explains the differences and benefits between both procedures.

The Dental Bonding Procedure

In less than one hour, you can have a front tooth restored with dental bonding treatment. Your dentist starts by lightly roughing up the enamel surface to be addressed and then applying a mild etching solution. Using a shade color chart, a composite resin is chosen, matching your natural teeth. This putty-like material is shaped and sculpted on the enamel surface of the tooth or teeth. Once the material has been smoothed out, it is hardened with an ultraviolet light and then polished. Just like that, your smile is improved.

The Porcelain Veneer Process

The first step includes an impression made of your teeth. This impression is sent to a dental lab that custom-creates and fabricates wafer-thin pieces of porcelain that match your teeth. Your dentist will remove a thin layer of the tooth’s enamel and glue these custom-made veneers to the front surfaces. This process takes two visits and is a more expensive solution.

Comparing the Benefits: Dental Bonding versus Veneers

Dental bonding is quick, simple, and less expensive. But that also comes with a price. Veneers are more durable than dental bonding and have a longer life expectancy. Dental bonding is also more easily susceptible to staining in comparison to veneers. If you enjoy your coffee, tea, cola, red wine, or smoke tobacco, you should take this into consideration.

Which Solution will be Best for You?

A dental examination and consultation are the best starting points, and your restoration will be confirmed based on your personal situation. Veneers are non-reversible due to the amount of enamel removed from the tooth. Dental bonding could be an initial solution, with porcelain veneers to maybe follow later. Either way, it is a definite win-win. Research studies have proven repeatedly that when you are happy with your smile, it has numerous positive effects on various aspects of your life. Something as simple, common, and popular as a dental bonding procedure may have a major impact on your perception of the quality of your life.

Related Article: Fix Gaps Between Teeth with Dental Bonding