Cosmetic Dentists Explain Difference between Porcelain Veneers & Dental Bonding
Porcelain veneers and cosmetic dental bonding are both cosmetic procedures that can correct imperfections in the way teeth look, but they are quite different procedures. The Charlotte NC cosmetic dentists at Advanced Dentistry of Blakeney can help you determine which is right for you, but here is some general information about the procedures to give you an idea of what the differences are.
Porcelain veneers are thin coverings that go over the front of the teeth. Unlike a crown, which goes all the way around a tooth, a veneer only covers the front and wraps slightly around the sides. Veneers are not strong enough to repair a tooth and are only used for cosmetic purposes. They can completely change the appearance of the front of a tooth, including a color change if desired. Because they are made of porcelain, veneers dont stain and last a very long time.
Cosmetic dental bonding is a simpler, quicker and less expensive procedure than veneers, but cannot make as dramatic a change to the appearance of the teeth. Bonding involves a composite material that can cover imperfections in the teeth. Bonding is a good option for chipped teeth or to close gaps between teeth. Bonding can stain, and does not last as long as veneers. After a few years bonding will usually need to be redone.
Getting porcelain veneers is more expensive than bonding because the material is stronger, it doesnt stain, and it lasts much longer. But the process is also more involved and requires more than one visit to the dentists office. The dentist will first have to reduce some of the surface of the tooth or teeth that are to be covered with veneers, to allow them to adhere to the surface. Then impressions of the teeth are made and sent to the laboratory where the veneers are made. When the dentist receives the veneers from the lab, the patient returns to the office to have them placed.
Bonding can usually be done in one visit. This makes it a good option for emergency situations when a tooth is chipped or cracked.
You can visit our Charlotte NC cosmetic dentists for a consultation about veneers or bonding. Ask any questions you have to help the dentist determine which might be right for you.
