Porcelain Veneers vs. Dental Bonding
Dental flaws can be addressed with cosmetic dental treatments such as porcelain veneers or dental bonding. While both of these procedures cover up aesthetic blemishes, their approaches to accomplishing this differ considerably.
Dr. Jon Marc Van Slate, of Houston, TX, discusses porcelain veneers vs. dental bonding, highlighting the pros and cons of each treatment. Read on to learn which cosmetic dental solution might be right for you.
How Are Veneers and Bonding the Same?
Both porcelain veneers and dental bonding are cosmetic dental therapies that literally cover up cosmetic flaws, such as cracks, chips, stains, discoloration, or misshapen teeth. In each of these treatments, the tooth is improved by having an enamel-colored material placed over it.
How Are Veneers and Bonding Different?
These two treatments differ in the treatment process.
Porcelain veneers are thin shells of realistic-looking porcelain that are placed over the front of a tooth. The teeth first need to be modified to accommodate the veneer. This usually requires removing a portion of the enamel.
Impressions are taken of the treated tooth. This information is sent to a lab where the veneer is custom-made. About two weeks later when the veneer is ready, you will return to have the veneer cemented to the tooth.
Alternatively, dental bonding can be performed in a single dental visit. The dentist will mold a composite tooth-colored resin over the flawed tooth. A specialized curing light is applied to the resin so it hardens, and the tooth is polished.
Which Treatment Is Right for Me?
Which treatment is best for you will depend on the following questions:
- How important is a supremely natural-look to you?
Porcelain veneers are the treatment of choice for patients who want a very authentic appearance. The veneer is fabricated from high quality porcelain that has a shimmer and translucent quality that closely mimics real tooth enamel. While the bonding resin is tooth-colored, it cannot match the realism of a porcelain veneer.
- Are you looking for a long-lasting treatment?
Porcelain veneers are very durable and last ten years or more, with the right care. Alternatively, bonding usually lasts about five years with proper care.
- Do you want a reversible treatment?
Receiving porcelain veneers will require removing some enamel. As such, patients will need a veneer or dental crown over the tooth for the remainder of their life. For patients not ready to commit to this, bonding may be a better option.
- What is your budget?
For budget-conscious patients, bonding treatment is usually the way to go since porcelain veneers are more expensive.
Make Your Appointment Today
If you are unhappy with an aspect of your smile, Dr. Van Slate can perform a cosmetic dental therapy. Contact our practice to set-up your appointment. You can speak to a team member at (713) 783-1993 or use our online form to send us a message.
