Dental veneers and dental bonding are two cosmetic dental procedures you can use to enhance the appearance of your teeth. While both can address common issues like stains, imperfections, and discoloration, they are different when it comes to their application and outcomes. If you’ve been wondering which one of them you should undergo, you’re in luck. This article will properly explain both teeth bonding and veneers so you can make an informed decision as to which one is best suited for you.
Teeth bonding
Teeth bonding is also known as dental bonding or cosmetic bonding. It is a dental procedure where a tooth-coloured resin material is applied and bonded to the surface of a tooth. People commonly use it to repair chipped, cracked, or discoloured teeth, close gaps between teeth, or change the shape or size of their teeth. Dental bonding is generally not very invasive and is faster than most procedures.
Veneers
Veneers, on the other hand, are thin shells that are typically made of porcelain or composite resin that are custom-made to cover the surface of a tooth. Veneers are usually used to improve the appearance of teeth by covering stains, discolouration, chips, cracks, or gaps. Veneers are also used to enhance the shape or size of teeth. They are bonded to the teeth using dental cement, providing a durable and long-lasting solution for achieving a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
Key differences between teeth bonding and veneers
- Veneers are thin shells that go over the front surface of the teeth, enhancing its appearance, while teeth bonding uses a tooth-coloured composite resin to repair the teeth. It focuses on specific areas that need fixing instead of covering the entire tooth, like veneers.
- People generally use veneers when they want a total smile makeover. This means that they use it to address issues with multiple teeth, giving them a uniform and beautiful result. Teeth bonding, on the other hand, is usually used when people want to target specific teeth or minor issues.
- Veneers are usually made from porcelain or composite resin, so they are more durable and resistant to staining. Teeth bonding uses a bonding resin that can’t boast of lasting up to 15 to 20 years with proper care like veneers. It needs replacement every 5 to 10 years due to wear and tear.
- Veneers are generally more expensive than dental bonding. This is because it requires more durable materials and a more tedious procedure. Veneers can range from about $950 to $2,500 per tooth, depending on the region or clinic, while teeth bonding ranges from $300 to $600 per tooth. The difference is very clear.
Comparing The Procedures
Teeth Bonding and Veneers are both very effective, but their procedures differ. Here’s what it takes to get them done.
Teeth Bonding Procedure:
- The procedure starts with you consulting with your dentist who will assess you and discuss what the process entails with you.
- Next, your dentist will prepare your teeth by cleaning it out and applying a mild etching solution to roughen the surface. This makes it easier for the resin to bond with your tooth.
- The composite resin is then applied to your tooth in layers. It should first be shaped to perfectly correct imperfections like chips, cracks or gaps.
- After the application, the material is solidified using a special light or laser, making it also bond tightly with the tooth.
- Your dentist will then trim and polish the bonded tooth to make it look smoother and more natural.
- The entire procedure takes about 30 to 60 minutes per tooth and can usually be completed in a single office visit.
Dental Veneers Procedure
Just like dental bonding, the veneers procedure starts with you consulting with your dentist, who will assess you to determine if you are eligible to get veneers. They will also discuss what the process entails with you. The tooth preparation process is more tedious, anyway. A thin layer of enamel will be removed from the surface of your teeth so that the veneer can properly fit. After preparation, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth to create custom-made veneers that will fit each tooth perfectly. While your permanent veneers are being made, you will be given temporary veneers to protect your teeth and make them look pleasing. When the permanent veneers are ready, your dentist will remove the temporary veneers and bond the custom-made veneers to your teeth using dental cement. Your dentist will then make final adjustments to make sure that it’s comfortable, fits you properly, and is beautiful as well. The entire procedure will require you to visit the clinic about two times or more. It also has a waiting time between the first preparation and the final placement of the veneers.
These are the questions you should ask yourself if you are going to choose:
- How much change in the appearance of my teeth so I want. Would I rather go for a subtle enhancement or a more dramatic one?
- How long do I want my enhancement to last? Do I want something more temporary or something that will last for a very long time?
- How much time do I have to get the procedure done? Do I have an event I need a quick fix for, or do I have the time and patience to undergo a procedure that has many steps?
- How much am I willing to invest in the procedure, and how much am I ready to spend on maintenance over the years?
- How much care am I willing to give to my enhancement? Am I ready to change habits that will compromise my treatment and follow a proper hygiene routine?
Are you still not sure?
That’s okay. You don’t have to make a choice on your own. You can contact us to discuss the best option for you between veneers and teeth bonding. To arrive at a decision, we will consider important factors like your age, budget, needs, and health. In the end, what really matters is choosing a good dentist who will handle your procedure efficiently and professionally. They have to ensure that you walk out of the clinic with a beautiful smile. If that’s what you are looking for, don’t hesitate to contact us today!
