Cosmetic procedures provide readjustments that can drastically change the appearance of your teeth. Two of the most common treatments, veneers, and dental bonding, are good choices for those with minor teeth defects. Choosing between the two may be difficult since both have benefits that are separate from the other. By reading this article, you will be well-equipped to decide which of the two veneers and bonding is more suitable for you to get from a cosmetic dentist in Fairfield, ME.
What Are Veneers?
Veneers are very thin structures made from porcelain or a special dental material called composite resin. They are created in precise size, shape, and color to fit the front of your teeth. These shells are cemented permanently on the teeth to provide an enhanced appearance. Veneers are typically preferred for their durability, appearance, and versatility, where they can address several issues, such as stains, chipped teeth, or crowding.
What Is Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding entails placing tooth-colored resin specifically on your teeth and shaping it to produce the desired change. A special light then hardens this resin to ensure it adheres well to your teeth. It is widely used for temporary cosmetic dental work, such as filling up small cracks for voids or changing the shape of the teeth.
Appearance and Aesthetics: How Do They Compare?
- Durability and Longevity
Porcelain veneers, which can last 10-15 years or more if given adequate maintenance, are superior in durability to other options available. These are long-term fixed prosthetic investments as they do not stain, chip, or wear out fast. Although not as long-lasting as porcelain veneers, composite veneers still offer many years of wearing time.
It is weaker in terms of bonding, though. While lasting up to 3-7 years before requiring repair or replacement, the resin bonding substance will likely change and discolor. If longevity matters most to you, veneers could prove more effective than other methods, yielding longer-lasting outcomes.
- Cost Considerations
Veneers and bonding vary most in cost, which forms the primary basis for deciding between the two. Moreover, veneers cost more because they are made from better-quality materials, are made to order, and use a more involved procedure. Porcelain veneers are especially costlier than other veneers on the same continuum.
However, as with any form of attachment, bonding has a shorter lifespan, and the need for refitting or redeployment may make it relatively expensive in the long run.
- Procedure and Time Commitment
Bonding is the quicker option if time is an important factor. The full treatment can normally be carried out in a dentist appointment for people who are in a hurry to gain positive results. It also does not need much preparation of the dental tissues, thus making it less invasive.
Meanwhile, veneers require many appointments. The first appointment involves taking molds for customized porcelain veneers and any dental prophylaxis. When it is constructed, permanent ones might be set, but temporary veneers might also be laid. The second session involves fixing bespoke veneers on the teeth.
- Maintenance and Care
Good dental care is essential to keep both veneers and bonding looking and working. Porcelain veneers are particularly stain-resistant and require frequent dental visits, flossing, and basic brushing. Still, behaviors like tooth grinding or biting hard things could ruin them.
Bonding is more prone to discoloration and chipping, so patients have to be more careful with their eating and lifestyle. Over time, foods and liquids like tea, wine, and coffee may discolor bonded teeth. Bonded teeth might also need regular touch-ups or replacements to keep their appearance.
Conclusion
Bonding and veneers are good ways to improve the look of your teeth, but they are best for different situations and needs. Perfect for people looking for a whole smile makeover, veneers provide a dramatic and long-lasting change. While not as long-lasting as veneers, bonding is an affordable and quicker way of correcting small imperfections.