Porcelain Veneers vs. Cosmetic Dental Bonding

Regardless of how diligent one may be when it comes to taking good care of their teeth, even the slightest aesthetic concern can have an effect on the overall appearance of a person’s smile. Some of the most common cosmetic dental issues include chips, noticeable gaps, and very deep stains. Fortunately, there are two exceptional treatment options that can be performed to address these concerns; however, one is often more ideal than the other, depending on the circumstances.

For many years, porcelain veneers and cosmetic dental bonding have been utilized as standard treatments to treat gaps and chips, as well as to “hide” prominent stains. Below you will find a brief explanation of the differences between the two treatments and the reasons why veneers may be preferable to dental bonding (or vice-versa) in certain cases:

Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are remarkably versatile cosmetic dentistry treatments. Made of a strong porcelain material and custom-crafted to fit precisely and comfortably over the front and side areas of the tooth, porcelain veneers are designed to improve signs of gaps, chips, and stains by cloaking their appearance behind a restoration that looks and feels natural. Securely affixed to the tooth with a durable bonding material, porcelain veneers can last for decades with the proper home care. They are also stain-resistant, and can even be utilized to address mild signs of teeth misalignment.

Cosmetic Dental Bonding
Often presented to patients as an alternative option to porcelain veneers, cosmetic dental bonding offers many of the same benefits but uses a very different approach. Dental bonding involves the careful placement of a tooth-colored resin material on the affected tooth. The resin is precisely sculpted and shaped by our dentist, and then hardened with a special light. Once the final polish is complete, the results should provide a very natural blend with surrounding teeth. Like porcelain veneers, cosmetic dental bonding can be used to restore the appearance of a tooth that has been compromised by cracks, chips, or structural wear, as well as to address signs of gaps, spaces, and severe stains.

The most significant differences between porcelain veneers and cosmetic dental bonding are the cost and longevity of results. Dental bonding is often a less expensive option than veneers; however, the effects will likely not last as long. While dental bonding outcomes can last for several years, the material may begin to yellow over time and will need to be replaced to maintain results. The composite bonding material also does not offer the strength and durability of a porcelain veneer, and can be more susceptible to breakage than a veneer. With that in mind, dental bonding can definitely serve as an effective and lasting aesthetic dental restoration for patients who would like an alternative to porcelain veneers.

Once our dentist here at Smile for Life Dental examines your teeth and talks with you about your concerns, they will be happy to recommend the option that’s best for your needs. If you have questions about porcelain veneers, cosmetic dental bonding, or other treatments available at our practice, please contact us today!