Veneers and bonding are dental treatments used for both restorative and cosmetic treatments. Here we look at the difference between veneers vs. bonding as well as their uses in both restorative and cosmetic applications.
Restorations are used to fix cavities or broken teeth, while cosmetic dental treatments help improve the appearance of healthy teeth.
What Is Bonding In Dentistry?
Dental bonding is used to repair minor damage to teeth by removing decay and applying a composite resin material to fill and reshape the damage. The resin is tooth-coloured, and is supple when first applied, requiring a dental “light” to fuse the material to the tooth and help it harden.
The resin can be matched to the colour of your teeth and manipulated to repair chipped or broken teeth. For cosmetic treatments, it can be used to fill gaps as an alternative to braces, improve the appearance of misshapen teeth, or cover permanent stains.
How is bonding applied?
Before the treatment begins, your dentist places a clear plastic “matrix” over the nearby teeth to protect them during the process. A mild chemical is applied to the surface of the tooth to make it rough enough for the resin to adhere. Your dentist will mix the resin with tints to help match the colour of your natural teeth. In the case of cosmetic treatments, you can choose the shade you prefer to cover stains.
Bonding is applied in layers and each layer is cured using light. Once each layer hardens, your dentist continues to add new layers until they achieve the thickness required. They can then shape and polish the resin to match your original tooth shape for restoration, or to improve the appearance for cosmetic treatments.
Can anyone get dental bonding?
No, dental bonding is not ideal for everyone. Some reasons your dentist might recommend against bonding include:
Severe chips or breakage that requires a crown
Bruxism (grinding and clenching teeth)
How long does bonding last?
Dental bonding lasts from 4 to 8 years, depending on your oral hygiene routine, and whether you engage in any habits that can damage bonding such as biting your nails.
Advantages and disadvantages of bonding
Advantages:
Easy, safe and affordable
Can be completed in one appointment unless several teeth are being treated
Very little tooth enamel is removed
Anesthesia is not required if you are having cosmetic bonding to cover stains
Disadvantages:
Dental bonding stains like natural teeth
Only lasts between 4-8 years
Vulnerable to chips and breaks, especially if you grind or clench your teeth
When to choose bonding
Bonding is a good choice when you:
Have a limited budget
Are younger
Want to create a more even appearance
Have minimal gaps to fill between teeth
Are restoring breaks, cracks, abrasion or cavities
Want to improve tooth shape or size
Wish to hide stains resistant to whitening treatments such as graying from medication
Need to repair damage from abrasion
What Are Veneers?
Dental veneers are thin porcelain “shells”, often referred to as the fake nails of dentistry. They are applied in the same manner as fake nails, except the fixative used to adhere them to the tooth is permanent. Porcelain veneers are exceptionally strong and resistant to stains. In most cases, veneers are used for cosmetic purposes to hide the same issues as bonding.
How are veneers applied?
Although porcelain veneers are very thin, they add a bit more depth to your tooth. As a result, your dentist will remove a thin layer of your tooth enamel to accommodate the veneer. Because of this your dentist might use local anesthetic to freeze the area to keep you comfortable. A dental mould is made of your tooth to ensure the customized porcelain veneer fits perfectly to your natural tooth shape.
Temporary veneers are applied to protect your teeth while the veneers are crafted. An appointment is scheduled once your veneers are ready, and your temporary veneers are removed. The same chemicals used to roughen your teeth for bonding are applied to ensure the veneers create a firm bond. Your veneers are then glued to your teeth with a composite resin cement.
How long do veneers last?
Porcelain veneers can last 10 years or longer with proper care.
Can anyone get veneers?
No, there are a few reasons your dentist might recommend another solution, including:
Tooth decay and gum disease that must be treated before veneers are applied
Enamel erosion that prevents veneers from adhering properly
Severe chips or breakage that requires a crown
Bruxism (grinding and clenching teeth)
Advantages and disadvantages of veneers
Advantages:
Porcelain is very natural-looking
They don’t stain
They last upwards of 10 years with proper care
They are cavity-resistant
Disadvantages:
They won’t stain and change colour along with your natural teeth as you age, creating an uneven appearance that will require veneer replacement
Clenching and grinding will eliminate you as a candidate
They are more expensive than bonding
They are more prone to chips
They require temporary veneers that are very delicate
You’ll need two visits to complete the treatment
When to choose veneers
To cover chipped or broken teeth
To fill in more severe gaps
To apply a stain resistant cover-up for existing stains
To improve the appearance of teeth that are too small or misshapen
When you want a more permanent solution
When you are older
When you have a higher budget
Veneers vs. Bonding: Which is Better?
Both options work well for similar applications. Here are the key considerations when choosing the right option for you:
Veneers won’t stain, while bonding will
Because enamel is removed from your teeth for veneers, a poor seal can increase the risk of forming cavities, which is not a worry with bonding
Enamel removal for veneers means you can’t reverse your decision once you have them
Chipped or damaged veneers require full replacement, whereas bonding can be repaired
Porcelain veneers look more natural than the composite resin used for bonding
Although veneers won’t stain, this poses an issue as you age, as your natural teeth will stain over time, while your veneers remain white
Porcelain veneers are more expensive than bonding but last longer by at least five years or more
Depending on the reason for your treatment, sometimes a combination of dental bonding and veneers works well. You can discuss your options with your dentist to decide what treatment is best for you.
Doctor Christopher Li, DDS Dr. Chris, as he is affectionately known, is a licensed dentist with over 20 years experience. His caring personality makes even the most tentative person at ease. Patients are constantly commenting about how Dr. Chris is incredible at delivering pain-free freezing, and how he has an amazing chair-side manner. Dr. Chris loves sharing information with his patients and everyone who has teeth about how to care for their teeth, avoid tooth decay, and the treatments available to help them overcome their tooth pain or other dental issues so they can enjoy life and food to its fullest!
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Understanding Cosmetic Dental Treatments: Veneers vs. Bonding
Cosmetic dental treatments have become increasingly popular for those seeking to enhance their smiles. Two of the most common options are dental veneers and bonding, both of which offer unique benefits and can significantly improve the appearance of teeth.
Dental veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin that are custom-made to cover the front surface of teeth. They are ideal for correcting issues such as discoloration, chips, or gaps. In contrast, dental bonding involves applying a tooth-colored resin directly to the tooth, which can be molded and shaped to achieve the desired appearance. Understanding the differences between these two options can help patients make informed decisions about their cosmetic dental care.
What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are a popular choice for patients looking to improve the aesthetic appearance of their teeth. They are designed to cover imperfections such as stains, chips, or misalignment, providing a natural-looking solution that enhances the overall smile.
Typically made from porcelain or composite resin, veneers are custom-crafted to match the color and shape of the patient's natural teeth. The process involves minimal tooth preparation, and they can last for many years with proper care, making them a long-lasting investment in one's dental aesthetics.
Exploring Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a versatile cosmetic procedure that can be used to address a variety of dental issues, including chips, cracks, and gaps between teeth. This technique involves applying a tooth-colored resin that is hardened with a special light, allowing for immediate results.
One of the advantages of dental bonding is its cost-effectiveness compared to veneers. Additionally, the bonding process typically requires less tooth enamel removal, making it a less invasive option. Patients can often achieve significant improvements in their smiles in just one visit, making bonding an attractive choice for those seeking quick results.
Comparing Longevity and Durability
When considering cosmetic dental options, understanding the longevity and durability of veneers and bonding is crucial. Dental veneers, particularly those made from porcelain, are known for their strength and can last upwards of 10 to 15 years with proper care.
On the other hand, dental bonding generally has a shorter lifespan, typically lasting around 5 to 7 years. Factors such as oral hygiene, dietary habits, and the location of the bonded teeth can influence durability. Patients should weigh these factors when deciding which treatment best suits their long-term cosmetic goals.
Cost Considerations for Veneers and Bonding
The cost of cosmetic dental procedures can vary significantly based on the type of treatment and the complexity of the case. Generally, veneers tend to be more expensive than bonding due to the materials used and the custom fabrication process involved.
While bonding is often seen as a more budget-friendly option, it's important for patients to consider the long-term value of each treatment. Investing in veneers may provide better durability and a more natural appearance, ultimately making them a worthwhile consideration for those seeking significant smile enhancement.
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Understanding Cosmetic Dental Treatments: Veneers vs. Bonding
Cosmetic dental treatments have become increasingly popular for those seeking to enhance their smiles. Two of the most common options are dental veneers and bonding, both of which offer unique benefits and can significantly improve the appearance of teeth.
Dental veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin that are custom-made to cover the front surface of teeth. They are ideal for correcting issues such as discoloration, chips, or gaps. In contrast, dental bonding involves applying a tooth-colored resin directly to the tooth, which can be molded and shaped to achieve the desired appearance. Understanding the differences between these two options can help patients make informed decisions about their cosmetic dental care.
What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are a popular choice for patients looking to improve the aesthetic appearance of their teeth. They are designed to cover imperfections such as stains, chips, or misalignment, providing a natural-looking solution that enhances the overall smile.
Typically made from porcelain or composite resin, veneers are custom-crafted to match the color and shape of the patient's natural teeth. The process involves minimal tooth preparation, and they can last for many years with proper care, making them a long-lasting investment in one's dental aesthetics.
Exploring Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a versatile cosmetic procedure that can be used to address a variety of dental issues, including chips, cracks, and gaps between teeth. This technique involves applying a tooth-colored resin that is hardened with a special light, allowing for immediate results.
One of the advantages of dental bonding is its cost-effectiveness compared to veneers. Additionally, the bonding process typically requires less tooth enamel removal, making it a less invasive option. Patients can often achieve significant improvements in their smiles in just one visit, making bonding an attractive choice for those seeking quick results.
Comparing Longevity and Durability
When considering cosmetic dental options, understanding the longevity and durability of veneers and bonding is crucial. Dental veneers, particularly those made from porcelain, are known for their strength and can last upwards of 10 to 15 years with proper care.
On the other hand, dental bonding generally has a shorter lifespan, typically lasting around 5 to 7 years. Factors such as oral hygiene, dietary habits, and the location of the bonded teeth can influence durability. Patients should weigh these factors when deciding which treatment best suits their long-term cosmetic goals.
Cost Considerations for Veneers and Bonding
The cost of cosmetic dental procedures can vary significantly based on the type of treatment and the complexity of the case. Generally, veneers tend to be more expensive than bonding due to the materials used and the custom fabrication process involved.
While bonding is often seen as a more budget-friendly option, it's important for patients to consider the long-term value of each treatment. Investing in veneers may provide better durability and a more natural appearance, ultimately making them a worthwhile consideration for those seeking significant smile enhancement.
