What is the Difference Between Dental Bonding and Veneers?
There are many dental treatment solutions available if you are interested in fixing cosmetic issues with your teeth. Teeth that are chipped, misaligned, or discolored can be easily repaired using treatments that are both cost-effective and timely. Dental bonding in greenville sc and dental veneers are two of the most popular treatments used to cosmetically enhance a smile. Both dental bonding and veneers can be used to treat either just a single tooth or many teeth that need repair. Below is a discussion on the differences between dental bonding and veneers to help you decide if one of these treatments is right for you.
Dental Bonding
Direct composite dental bonding is when a tooth-colored composite is applied directly to a tooth and sculpted or shaped to fix a chip, crack, or tooth discoloration. Composite bonding is minimally invasive and requires little preparation, and because of this a dentist may decide to apply bonding material while they are completing other dental treatments. Unfortunately, the composite material is not as durable as a real tooth and is more susceptible to being damaged or stained. A composite bonding repair can last between 3-10 years on average. Composite bonding is a customizable experience, meaning your dentist can use their expertise to shape your new and improved teeth, creating a solution that is personal and just right for you.
Veneers
Dental veneers are artificial caps that can be permanently attached to the front of teeth to repair damage or improve their appearance. Veneers can be made from different materials, but porcelain is the most common material used to manufacture veneers. Porcelain veneers are durable, aesthetically pleasing, and stain resistant. Veneers offer a more permanent solution than composite bonding. Veneers can last between 5-20 years. Veneers require planning and preparation prior to installation. This preparation involves taking measurements, manufacturing the veneers in the desired shape and shade, and filing down the teeth so that the veneer can be applied securely. A part of this preparation is ordering veneers in advance from a dental laboratory separate from the dentist office.
If you want to improve the appearance of your smile, you have several dental treatments to choose from. If you are deciding between cosmetic bonding and veneers, you should consider your overall oral health, your dental needs, and the expertise of your dentist. Dental bonding is a low-pain and low-risk option for repairing cracks, chips, and discoloration and the procedure can be performed in one dental visit. Porcelain veneers are a larger financial investment that require more preparation but offer a more permanent and durable solution. If you are looking for a minor repair to one tooth, dental bonding may be a good choice for a quick and cost-effective repair. If you are unhappy with the appearance of several teeth, and want a long term fix, veneers may be right for you. The best place to start is to have a discussion with your dentist and discuss the best option for you.