Deciding Between Bonding & Veneers

When it comes to choosing the cosmetic dentistry treatment that will best treat the aesthetic flaws that are unique to your smile, many patients are unsure of the option that is best for their needs. Nashville dentist Clint Newman takes the guesswork out of the process by detailing each patient’s options during an informative consultation before the treatment process begins.

For patients with cosmetic issues, porcelain veneers and dental bonding are two potential treatment solutions. Here, we review the differences and similarities between porcelain veneers and dental bonding.

Uses

The most obvious similarity between porcelain veneers and dental bonding is the uses for these procedures. Both treatments can be performed to treat the following problems:

• Mildly crooked teeth,
• Gaps between the teeth
• Tooth discoloration
• Chips
• Fractures
• Problems with tooth size or shape

Method

Although dental bonding and porcelain veneers treat the same types of aesthetic imperfections, the manner in which these treatments are performed are quite different.

Dental Bonding Procedure

In the dental bonding procedure, a direct composite bonding technique is employed to mask imperfections, reshape the tooth, and address alignment issues during a single dental appointment. This means that the dental material is applied directly to the tooth, and then shaped and polished to produce an improved aesthetic. The composite bonding material is about as thick as toothpaste, and is applied to the tooth in layers. A specialized dental tool is used to smooth and sculpt the bonding material to mask dental flaws. Once an appropriate amount of bonding solution has been applied, an ultraviolet light is directed at the tooth to harden the dental material. The tooth shape and bite is refined until the optimal appearance and function is achieved.

Porcelain Veneer Procedure

The porcelain veneers procedure involves the use of an indirect fabrication technique. This means that the porcelain dental material is custom made to fit over the front and biting surface of each tooth by a dental milling system and skilled lab technicians. To make a veneer that not only fits, but also improves the appearance of, a patients tooth, a mold will be taken of the teeth. The mold, along with specifications provided by Dr. Newman, enable lab technicians to craft beautiful, natural looking veneers that offer a great fit and look. Once the veneers are made, they are secured to the surface of the teeth with a durable dental adhesive.

Results

For our patients in Nashville, porcelain veneers and dental bonding offer excellent results. However, the porcelain material from which veneers are made is high quality and more natural looking than the composite material used in the dental bonding procedure. As a result, porcelain veneers last longer and offer the best visual outcome. While the dental bonding material tends to wear faster than porcelain, the treatment is less costly.

Dental bonding and porcelain veneers are popular cosmetic dentistry options at our Nashville dental practice. During a cosmetic dentistry consultation or dental exam, Dr. Newman can examine your teeth and gums and determine which treatment is best suited to your needs. Contact the practice of Clint Newman, DDS, today to find out if porcelain veneers or dental bonding is right for you.