Most people have had their smiles affected by a chipped, cracked, or discolored tooth. This may negatively impact their self-confidence and cause them to hide their smiles when speaking or laughing. In addition to affecting the smile, a chipped or cracked tooth also exposes the nerve of the tooth, which can cause sensitivity in affected individuals.
You can take advantage of various cosmetic dentistry treatments to improve your smile’s appearance drastically. Dental veneers and cosmetic bonding are among the most popular options for improving a smile. Both conceal imperfections by covering flawed teeth, including chips, fissures, and discoloration. They both also produce stunning preliminary results.
Although cosmetic bonding and dental veneers work almost similarly to improve the appearance of your teeth, there are still some clear differences between both cosmetic dentistry treatments. Below are both treatments’ features, the application process, cost, and durability. You can also discuss with a cosmetic dentist in Markham to get a better idea of both procedures and select the procedure that will serve your goals and improve your smile.
What Are Veneers?
Veneers are very thin layers of porcelain material bonded to your teeth. They are custommade to fit onto your tooth and match the appearance of your other teeth. Veneers can cover several teeth to achieve a bright, healthy smile. Depending on your aesthetic goals, it can also cover one discolored or damaged tooth. A small portion of your tooth will be removed during the veneer application process for the veneer to fit tightly and give you a smooth, even look. Although the insertion of veneers is typically painless, it may take several visits to achieve a perfect fit that will last a lifetime.
What is Cosmetic Bonding?
Cosmetic bonding is a cosmetic dentistry treatment to correct minor flaws in the teeth. The tooth’s surface is cleaned during the procedure, and a fresh coat of resin is applied on top. The resin is polished and molded to achieve the desired appearance once it has dried. The results from cosmetic bonding are not intended to remain forever. This procedure is usually recommended for tiny flaws with little biting force, such as the front teeth. Cosmetic bonding can last for about three to ten years, depending on the amount of bonding necessary and how well the patient takes care of their teeth. The cosmetic bonding placement procedure is quick and straightforward and only requires one office visit.
Cosmetic Bonding vs. Veneers
- Application: For cosmetic bonding, your dentist applies a coat of resin on the tooth’s surface to cover up its imperfections. The resin color is designed to match the rest of your teeth. After that, a specialized curing lamp is used to harden the resin. The resin is then polished and molded to achieve the desired appearance once it has dried. Normally, the procedure only needs one dental visit and is completed in under an hour.
The veneer application process is more intensive and needs at least two consultations. A small amount of enamel must be removed from the teeth at the initial consultation to prepare them for veneer application. Impressions are then obtained. The patient is given temporary veneers, and the impressions are sent to a dental laboratory. The laboratory will use the impressions to create personalized permanent veneers for the patient. The permanent veneers are then bonded to the teeth by the dentist during the second visit.
- Durability: How long cosmetic bonding lasts is different, as each patient is unique. Cosmetic bonding usually lasts about 3-10 years, depending on various conditions. You should also remember that cosmetic bonding can become discolored with time.
If maintained properly, porcelain veneers can last for about ten years. They are also exceptionally stain-resistant.
- Cost: Cosmetic bonding is one of the more affordable therapies in cosmetic dentistry. That’s because it’s a rather quick and easy process. Compared to cosmetic bonding, porcelain veneers are considerably more expensive. Nevertheless, veneers may be of better value because of their resilience and long-lasting beauty.
- Maintenance: Cosmetic bonding and veneers require similar maintenance. To maintain both, you must maintain a strict daily oral hygiene schedule. Additionally, it’s crucial to refrain from engaging in any activities that could damage the bonding agent or porcelain, such as engaging in physical activity without a mouthguard or gnawing on very hard items like candies or ice.
Cosmetic bonding is usually the treatment that dentists recommend to people if they wish to improve the appearance of their teeth at a reasonable price. On the other hand, those who wish to change the appearance of their teeth completely and are searching for a long-lasting remedy for their teeth’s cosmetic flaws can consider getting porcelain veneers.
You can schedule a personal consultation with your cosmetic dentist in Markham to better understand each option and select the procedure that will serve your goals and improve your smile. Get in touch with Greensborough Dental today to learn more about cosmetic dentistry and cosmetic bonding in Markham.
