Our team loves to help patients achieve stunning, radiant smiles through cosmetic dentistry. Virtually any smile can be transformed using popular cosmetic dentistry treatments like dental bonding and porcelain veneers, both of which can be customized to the unique needs and goals of the individual patient. When a patient schedules an in my office for a consultation, we explain the benefits and drawbacks of each treatment so they can make fully informed decisions about how to proceed with the process if they choose.
What are the Similarities and Differences Between Dental Bonding and Porcelain Veneers?
Dental bonding and porcelain veneers share a common goal: to rejuvenate smiles by restoring whiteness to discolored teeth and conceal aesthetic flaws such as chips, cracks, and imperfections in shape or size. Although they are both highly effective, there are very different in their approach.
Dental Bonding
This procedure applies a malleable composite resin material directly onto the front surfaces of the teeth. Once this step is finished, we meticulously sculpt the material so that the treated teeth complement the surrounding teeth perfectly in terms of their size, shape, and texture. After exposing the material to a curing light to harden, a final polish completes the procedure.
While the composite resin material is not quite as natural looking as porcelain, dental bonding produces outstanding results that generally cost less than porcelain veneers. Unlike porcelain veneers, dental bonding is also reversible, as no removal of enamel is necessary prior to the procedure.
Porcelain Veneers
Like tooth enamel, porcelain is translucent, allowing some light to pass through its surface rather than reflecting all light. The natural look of porcelain veneers makes them the most transformative smile makeover treatment. When custom-crafted veneers are bonded to the front teeth, they are virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth. They can also last for a decade or longer with proper oral hygiene habits and regular visits to the dentist.
Porcelain veneers do require a lifetime commitment since a small amount of enamel is removed prior to their placement. They are also more expensive than dental bonding, though most patients find the investment well worthwhile once they see their extraordinary new smiles!