How to Choose Between Dental Bonding and Veneers

Dental bonding is a type of cosmetic dentistry that’s often compared to porcelain veneers. It offers a similar smile makeover result, minus the permanent and pricey attributes of actual veneers.

But is dental bonding really as good as veneers?

The answer to that question isn’t a simple yes or no. Bonding material is the perfect smile makeover solution for a lot of people. In fact, it can offer greater benefits than porcelain veneers. The real question to ask yourself is, “Is bonding going to give me the results I want?”

Let’s take a closer look at some of the similarities and differences between dental bonding and porcelain veneers.

Similarities Between Dental Bonding and Porcelain Veneers

They provide a “your smile but better” appearance.

Dental bonding and porcelain veneers both provide a beautiful result that, most importantly, looks like natural teeth. There’s no such thing as Chiclet teeth when an experienced, artistic dentist like Dr. Oxley is on the job!

They can help boost your self-confidence.

Smile makeovers can be a huge self-confidence booster. After your appointment, you’ll be eager to take selfies and show off your new smile to your loved ones. Feeling free to share your smile might even turn up new opportunities in your life.

They can brighten the look of your smile.

Both services brighten the overall appearance of your smile. Stains and discoloration will be covered, and the material used will be at the whiteness level you’d like. Whiter teeth also mean your smile and face will look healthier and more youthful.

They improve the overall shape of your teeth.

Sometimes teeth have chips, uneven edges, or look a bit too short. Dental bonding and veneers will help give your teeth a better overall shape that complements your smile rather than distracting from it.

They repair chips, cracks, and gaps.

Chips, cracks, gaps, and minor damage are all normal things to see in a natural smile. These flaws aren’t always welcomed, however. Dental bonding and veneers will cover these up.

They can help strengthen or protect teeth.

Dental bonding and veneers give added strength and protection to natural teeth, as they add additional material to them.

Differences Between Dental Bonding and Porcelain Veneers

Dental bonding is noninvasive.

Dental bonding is a noninvasive procedure that only requires minimal numbing. It’s completed within a single visit and is generally a simple process. Porcelain veneers, on the other hand, are invasive and require more time and appointments.

Dental bonding wears off over time.

Dental bonding naturally wears off over time. It may last anywhere from three to five years, sometimes more, before needing to be reapplied. Porcelain veneers stay on permanently until they are removed by a dentist.

Porcelain veneers are a permanent decision.

Porcelain veneers permanently change your teeth, as enamel has to be removed for placement. After you get porcelain veneers, there is no going back. While you can certainly replace your set of veneers with another, you’ll always need to wear veneers.

Dental bonding doesn’t affect enamel.

Dental bonding leaves your natural teeth just as they are. They’ll be thoroughly cleaned prior to the application of the bonding material, but you won’t be permanently tied to your decision.

Dental bonding is much more affordable.

Dental bonding is by far the more affordable option when compared to porcelain veneers. This is often a deciding factor in the bonding versus veneer debate for budget-conscious patients.

Porcelain veneers completely cover the teeth.

Bonding leaves a layer of material over the teeth, but porcelain veneers completely cover the visible portion of your teeth in a shell. Because of this, porcelain veneers can cover more severe flaws that bonding can’t.

When to Choose Bonding or Veneers

When to Choose Dental Bonding:

• You want a smile makeover but you’re on a budget.
• Your smile flaws are minimal to moderate.
• You want to test the waters of cosmetic dentistry.
• You love your current smile but want a little boost.

Why Porcelain Veneers May Be a Better Choice:

• You are committed to investing in cosmetic dentistry.
• Your smile flaws are moderate to severe.
• You want to drastically change the look of your smile.
• You want your results to last for 10 to 15 years or more.

Schedule a consultation to find out if you’re a candidate.

Whether dental bonding is a winner or you think porcelain veneers might be the better choice, Dr. Oxley can help you make an informed decision.

An important step in any cosmetic dentistry treatment plan is the initial consultation. Your first consultation with Dr. Oxley will give you a chance to ask questions, learn more about the service that caught your interest, and find out if you’re a candidate. During your consultation, Dr. Oxley will take a close look at your smile, evaluate your oral health, and use digital dental technology to take images of your smile.When you’re ready to book your consultation, feel free to either call our New Bern office or use this online form.