Chips, craze lines, gaps, and dental discoloration can detract from the beauty of a smile. Fortunately, our team at Fort Bend Dental in Richmond and Missouri City, TX offers a range of cosmetic treatments to conceal aesthetic flaws and enhance your overall appearance.
Here, we discuss porcelain veneers vs. dental bonding. Both of these procedures offer cosmetic enhancement, but how can you know which option is right for you? Read on to learn more about porcelain veneers, dental bonding, and the issues these treatments can address.
Dental Bonding Overview
Cosmetic dental bonding involves the application of composite resin. This tooth-colored material can be matched to the rest of your teeth for seamless results.
One of the most significant benefits of dental bonding is that the natural teeth do not need to be altered during treatment.
Additionally, the entire procedure can usually be completed in a single visit, and the results last approximately five years.
Due to its minimally invasive nature, many patients choose dental bonding over porcelain veneers.
When Is Dental Bonding Recommended?
Dental bonding is typically used to mask minor cosmetic imperfections. This may include small chips, gaps, or intrinsic stains.
There are limits to what dental bonding can accomplish, however. If your cosmetic concerns are more extensive, you may be better suited to porcelain veneers.
Porcelain Veneers Overview
Crafted from layers of high-quality dental ceramic, porcelain veneers are thin – yet resilient – shells that are bonded to the front surfaces of the teeth.
To place veneers, some natural tooth structure must be removed. This step has a dual purpose. First, it creates space for your new veneers. Second, it increases the bonding surface of the tooth so the veneer adheres properly.
In most cases, porcelain veneer placement is completed in two appointments. First, the teeth must be prepared and impressions must be taken. These impressions are then delivered to a trusted dental lab where a trained ceramist will fabricate your veneers. This process can take about two weeks, depending on the case.
Once the final veneers are ready, we will see you for a second visit at our practice. After assessing the size, shape, and color of the veneers, your doctor will bond them securely into place using high-quality dental cement.
With proper at-home care and routine dental visits, porcelain veneers can last up to 20 years or more.
When Are Porcelain Veneers Recommended?
Porcelain veneers offer the most natural results, and are generally recommended when treating moderate to severe cosmetic damage.
For example, veneers can:
- Close gaps between the teeth
- Conceal intrinsic staining (discoloration that does not respond to teeth whitening)
- Provide more symmetry and uniformity compared to dental bonding
- Cover teeth that look worn due to age
- Give the appearance of straighter teeth
Which Option Is Right for You?
In simple terms, dental bonding can address minor aesthetic damage, while porcelain veneers can treat moderate to severe issues.
During a consultation at Fort Bend Dental, your doctor will assess your oral health and listen to your cosmetic concerns. All treatment options will be discussed with you in detail, and a personalized plan can be tailor-made to suit your needs.
Contact Fort Bend Dental Today
Are you thinking about cosmetic dentistry to improve your smile and boost your self-confidence? If so, call us at (281) 336-9971 or (281) 499-3541 , or contact us online to schedule a visit at our practice.
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