Porcelain Veneers Vs. Tooth Bonding: Which is Best?

When you have minor imperfections in your smile, it can be hard to confidently show your full range of emotions. Thankfully, there are plenty of cosmetic dental treatments available that could help. Both tooth bonding and porcelain veneers in Davidsonville, MD, could help improve the look and function of your smile. But while they have the same effects, they aren’t interchangeable in every case. Before starting treatment, your dentist will examine your bite and discuss your cosmetic goals to determine which treatment could be right for you.

Choosing Between Bonding and Porcelain Veneers in Davidsonville, MD

When choosing a dental treatment, especially cosmetic, it’s important to take your time and make sure you’re getting what you need and want. Prior to starting treatment, your dentist will consult with you and likely take impressions and X-Rays of your smile. They use these to create mock-ups that can show you what your final smile might look like. Cosmetic treatment is ultimately your decision, so it’s important that you speak up about any concerns you may have. If something doesn’t look right, let your dentist know so they can adjust treatment to fit your needs.

Tooth Bonding

Dental bonding is one of the more cost-effective treatment options for cosmetic fixes. It can typically be completed in one appointment, and you may even be able to start right after your consultation. Bonding uses a process similar to getting a dental filling. Instead of filling in cavities, it’s used to help shape and adjust your teeth.

Bonding is often recommended for patients who have mild cases of imperfections such as chips, misshapen teeth, or gaps between teeth. It may not be as effective in more complex cases. Depending on how well you care for your teeth after treatment, bonding can last between three and ten years before needing to be replaced.

Porcelain Veneers

Veneers are thin yet durable shells that fit over your natural teeth to help shape and protect them. The porcelain material is often strong enough to withstand normal biting pressure, and it tends to be more resistant to staining and decay. When getting veneers, most patients will need two appointments. If you are getting comprehensive treatment for your entire smile, however, your dentist may recommend splitting treatment into a few phases.

Veneers are typically recommended for patients who have moderate imperfections in their smile or who have multiple teeth that need adjustments. While they can be more costly than bonding, they also tend to last longer. With the right care and maintenance, your veneers could last between five and fifteen years before needing to be replaced.

If you are unhappy with the look or feel of your smile, cosmetic dentistry may be able to help. At Wooddell & Passaro, we offer both dental bonding and porcelain veneers to help patients reach their cosmetic goals. Call us today at (410) 956-5555 to schedule a consultation and see which treatment could be right for you.