Porcelain Veneers vs. Dental Bonding: Which Is Best for Me?

Having aesthetic flaws in your teeth like chips, cracks, stains, or gaps can leave you feeling self-conscious about the state of your grin. Fortunately, your dentist can provide different cosmetic solutions to address imperfections, like porcelain veneers and dental bonding. Both options are versatile enough to mend or mask one or several issues that impact your looks, so how do you choose which is best for you? Keep reading to learn more about each treatment so you can make an informed decision when the time comes!

What are Porcelain Veneers?

This procedure involves bonding thin, ceramic shells to the front surface of your teeth to mask any problem areas like chips, fractures, discoloration, and minor gaps or misalignment. They can be used to hide one or more issues simultaneously and are color-matched to your smile for seamless results. Not only can they upgrade your appearance, but they’re coated with a glaze durable enough to resist potential future damage and shield the underlying tooth.

Your dentist will need to remove some of your enamel for these covers to sit correctly against your gumline, which doesn’t grow back. That means this involves an irreversible change to your teeth that leaves them in a slightly weakened state. You’ll need to have veneers, or some other restoration, in place to protect them moving forward. Fortunately, veneers can last 15+ years with the right care so you won’t have to worry about replacing them anytime soon.

What is Dental Bonding?

If you’re looking for a cost-effective alternative to veneers that doesn’t require the same tooth preparation, then dental bonding may be better for you. This technique involves placing a small amount of color-customized composite resin directly onto your tooth. Your dentist then molds it into the perfect shape and hardens it in place with a curing light.

Like veneers, dental bonding can address many different issues like chips and cracks, small gaps, stains, and misshapen teeth. It uses the same material used in dental fillings when you have cavities, so it’s a safe and long-lasting solution. You can expect it to last 5-10 years although proper maintenance can extend its longevity. Plus, treatment can usually be completed in a single visit which makes this a convenient and effective approach.

How Do I Know Which is Best for Me?

Several different factors can influence your decision-making process. For example, you can probably expect to spend more money upfront on veneers than dental bonding, but the results are more likely to last longer. If you’re looking for a less-invasive option, then you might prefer dental bonding because your dentist won’t have to remove a layer of enamel, and fewer appointments are required.

If you’re still having a hard time deciding between these two treatments, call your dentist for a consultation. They’ll examine your mouth and recommend one or the other based on their findings.

About the Author

Dr. Christopher Cowell has more than 2 decades of providing patients with a full array of top-quality services, including cosmetic dentistry. He graduated as a biology major from Stetson University and then attended the University of Florida College of Dentistry. Now, he strives to offer individualized solutions in a comfortable environment to meet all your dental needs. He uses state-of-the-art technology so you and your family receive the most current possible treatments. If you’re frustrated by an imperfect smile and would like a consultation, you’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (386) 734-8585.