Life can be hard on the average person’s teeth. As you grow older, your mouth grabs on to little dental issues left and right: maybe it’s a chipped tooth from that one bicycle accident as a teen, or slight discoloration from a healthy coffee habit. Deep cleanings are good for functionality and for targeting disease, but when it comes to aesthetics and restoring all those chips and cracks and potential yellowing, it is time to consider something like dental bonding or veneers.
Dental bonding is a cosmetic dental procedure that involves applying a tooth-colored resin material to the teeth to improve their appearance, while veneers are thin, custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of the teeth. Both are guaranteed to transform your smile into something you are excited to show off, though not everyone is perfectly fit for both options.
Breaking Down Dental Bonding
This versatile cosmetic treatment is a great way to re-whiten your teeth and fix and jagged edges. The restorative procedure typically begins with the etching of the surface of the tooth, followed by applying a bonding agent, and then molding and polishing the resin to achieve the desired shape and finish. The result is a relatively quick and cost-effective solution that can significantly enhance your teeth in just one visit to our office.
Don’t let the term restorative procedure scare you away from dental bonding – it is a minimally invasive procedure, requiring little to no enamel removal, which not only makes for a more comfortable experience, but simultaneously preserves the natural structure of your teeth. Even with that in mind, it is important to note that dental bonding does have some drawbacks. The resin material used is less durable than other restorative options and is more prone to staining and chipping. As a result, it may need to be replaced semi-frequently.
Exploring Veneers
Veneers have been given an interesting reputation over the past couple years, seemingly taking over as the new “celebrity trend.” We encourage you to forget any ideas or misconceptions you may already have in place and instead focus on what your dentist tells you. Veneers are commonly made from porcelain or composite resin materials, both known for their strength and ability to mimic the natural translucency of tooth enamel. They make for an excellent solution for addressing a range of dental imperfections, including severe discoloration, and significant damage or wear. Unlike dental bonding, veneers can address misalignment and crookedness as well.
The process of getting veneers usually involves multiple visits to the dentist, including consultation, preparation, and final placement. The process of getting veneers is a little more invasive than dental bonding, as it will require removing a small amount of enamel to ensure a snug, personalized fit. This also means the procedure is irreversible.
Making the Right Choice for Your Smile
When deciding between dental bonding and veneers, there are various factors to be taken into consideration. Cost, for example, is often a consideration that weighs heavy on our patient’s minds. Generally speaking, dental bonding is more affordable upfront, making it an attractive option for those on a budget or those with insurance limitations. However, veneers, while arguably the more expensive option, are able to offer greater longevity and may require fewer replacements as time goes on.
In terms of durability and aging, veneers are more robust and resistant to stains, providing a more long-term solution for aesthetic dental issues. Both treatments can yield a white, shiny smile, but veneers often provide a more natural and polished appearance due to their custom-fit and high-quality build.
Ultimately, the best way to make an educated decision is to consult with our compassionate team.
Want to Learn More About Either Option? Schedule a Consultation Today
Whether you decide to move forward with dental bonding, veneers, or something else entirely, the most important decision to make is who you trust with your smile in the first place. At Enso Dental Arts, our team is here to help act as a personal guide throughout your visit and ensure you are set up for success. We believe an educated patient is the secret to quality care, which is why we are eager to talk you through your options and help choose a path that directly aligns with your unique goals and needs.
Don’t wait another day – schedule your appointment with Enso Dental Arts today. To speak to one of our actual dentists, Dr. Maria, please feel free to call our office directly at (516) 484-2676 or fill out our contact form.
