Dental Bonding vs. Porcelain Veneers: Which Is Right for You?
When dental flaws are severe, it can impact your self-esteem. Cosmetic dentistry treatments can address dental issues and improve the appearance of your smile. Dental bonding and porcelain veneers are popular cosmetic dentistry treatments. Each offers unique benefits to consider when deciding which treatment is right for you. Drs. Charles and Patrick Casey explain the difference between dental bonding versus porcelain veneers in this overview. Contact our Montreal, QC office to find out which treatment is best for your needs.
What Is Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding is a cosmetic dentistry treatment that uses a tooth-colored resin to hide dental flaws and transform the smile. This soft, putty-like resin is applied and shaped directly on the teeth to any desired size and shape. The resin is then cured, or hardened, further shaped, and polished for a completely enhanced smile.
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are similar to dental bonding treatment in that they are used to hide dental flaws and improve the overall appearance of the smile. Rather than using a tooth-colored resin, porcelain veneers are made of thin, tooth-colored porcelain. Porcelain veneers are essentially tooth-shaped shells that cover the front surface of the teeth. Each veneer is crafted from impressions taken of the teeth for a perfect, custom fit. Treatment generally requires two dental visits. During the first appointment, we take impressions of the teeth, which are sent to a dental lab where the veneers are crafted. During the second appointment, we place the finished veneers.
The Differences between Dental Bonding and Porcelain Veneers
Dental bonding and porcelain veneers treatment can address many of the same dental issues, such as misshaped teeth, small chips, minor fractures, discoloration, and gaps between teeth. Because dental bonding and porcelain veneers can be used for many of the same issues, understanding the differences between these treatments can help when deciding which treatment is best for your needs. The following are some ways in which dental bonding and porcelain veneers are different.
The Materials That Are Used
One of the biggest differences between dental bonding and porcelain veneers is the material used for treatment. Dental bonding uses a soft, malleable resin and porcelain veneers are made of porcelain. Both materials are customized to the desired shade of white and provide natural looking results.
How the Teeth Are Prepared
Both dental bonding and porcelain veneers treatment require the teeth to be prepared prior to treatment. With dental bonding, the teeth are thoroughly cleaned and a special solution is brushed on the surface of the teeth to aid in the bonding process. With porcelain veneers treatment, a thin layer of the enamel must be removed to allow room for the veneer to fit on the teeth.
Time Required for Treatment
Dental bonding treatment is typically completed in fewer dental visits than porcelain veneers. In many cases, dental bonding can be completed in one dental visit, whereas porcelain veneers treatment generally requires to visits.
Long-term Results
Both dental bonding and porcelain veneers provide long lasting, beautiful results, but porcelain veneers are generally more durable and longer lasting than dental bonding.
Learn More about Your Treatment Options
Whether undergoing dental bonding or porcelain veneers treatment, a beautiful smile can be yours. For more information about your treatment options, we welcome you to schedule a consultation at Smile Montreal Dentistry.