Discover the Dental Difference between Veneers and Bonding

When your teeth trouble you, two of the most common ways to fix your flaws are dental bonding and porcelain veneers. Use this go-to guide to see which is treatment is best for you.

The Process for Porcelain Veneers

Cosmetic and restorative dentists favor porcelain veneers because they deliver major cosmetic results in a minor amount of time. Many refer to them as “instant orthodontics” because they can straighten and correct teeth in just a few visits, rather than a couple of years. Porcelain veneers are thin, porcelain shells that are permanently bonded to the front of teeth. They are customized in a laboratory to match the natural shade of your teeth. Be aware that whitening with veneers will not work because the porcelain is resistant to the bleach. It’s best to whiten before treatment since whitening with veneers will not give the desired results. In most cases, veneers can help you achieve these cosmetic results:

• Improve the appearance of uneven or poorly-shaped teeth
• Repair chips and cracks
• Fix fractured teeth
• Fill in gaps between teeth
• Correct overcrowding of teeth
• Create a straighter smile

The Basics of Bonding

Dental bonding is another common way to enhance the appearance and function of your teeth. In dental bonding, a cosmetic or restorative dentist will mold a tooth-colored resin entirely over a troubled tooth and permanently bond it with an ultraviolet light. The procedure is usually completed in a single visit, which is ideal for busy people. It is commonly used for these reasons:

• Correcting tooth spacing
• Lengthening a tooth
• Improving the shape of a tooth
• Fixing cracked or chipped teeth
• Filling in gaps between teeth caused by decay

The Best Bet for your Smile

Which option is right for your smile? Your needs and your dentist will ultimately help you make that decision. Dental bonding is a faster and more affordable way to correct problems with both a tooth’s function and appearance. Porcelain veneers may require a few more dental visits, but they provide a much more dramatic cosmetic change. And while veneers are generally more durable than bonding, they may need to be replaced after years of wear and tear. Whichever procedure you choose, you’re certain to end up with a better smile.

To learn about our family dentistry practice in South Bend, call The Dental Center of Indiana today or make an appointment.