Tips to Pick Between Bonding and Veneers

Trying to decide whether dental bonding or porcelain veneers is the best way to improve your teeth? Use these helpful hints to make the right dental decision.

The Benefits of Bonding

Dental bonding is a popular procedure performed by cosmetic and restorative dentists to improve the form and function of teeth. In dental bonding, a tooth-colored resin is shaped completely over a tooth and then permanently secured with a special UV curing light. The procedure is usually done in a single visit, which is ideal for busy people. It is commonly used for these cases:

• To repair chips or cracks in a tooth
• To fill in gaps between teeth due to tooth decay
• To correct the spacing of teeth
• To lengthen a tooth
• To improve the shape of a tooth

The Perks of Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are a favorite procedure in cosmetic and restorative dental practices because they can dramatically improve a smile in a short period of time. Many refer to them as “instant orthodontics” because they can straighten and correct teeth in just one or two visits, rather than one or two years. Veneers are thin, porcelain shells that are permanently bonded to the front of teeth. The porcelain veneers are custom-created in a dental laboratory to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, and then placed at a later appointment. Keep in mind that whitening with veneers will not work because the porcelain is resistant to the bleach. It’s best to whiten before treatment since whitening with veneers will not give the desired results. In most cases, veneers can deliver these cosmetic results:

• Improve the appearance of uneven or poorly shaped teeth
• Correct chips and cracks in a tooth
• Repair broken teeth
• Fill in gaps between teeth
• Reduce overcrowding of teeth
• Create the look of a straighter smile

The Top Treatment for You

Your personal case and concerns will determine the best procedure for you. Dental bonding is a faster and more affordable way to correct problems with both a tooth’s function and appearance. Porcelain veneers may require a few more dental visits, but they provide a much more dramatic cosmetic change. And while veneers are generally more durable than bonding, they may need to be replaced after years of wear and tear. Be assured that your dentist in Peoria will help you decide on the right treatment for your teeth.

To learn about our family dentistry practice in Peoria, call Maple Shade Dental Group today or make an appointment.