Dental bonding and veneers are two cosmetic dentistry procedures that are meant to cover up the front surfaces of your teeth to enhance your smile’s appearance. If you’re considering cosmetic dental treatments, you may be weighing your options and wondering which of these procedures is right for you. Here are a few things to keep in mind about both bonding and veneers:
What Is Dental Bonding? The Pros & Cons
Dental bonding is a method of enhancing your tooth’s appearance by applying a composite dental resin. This resin is tooth-colored and very similar to the material used for fillings. Dr. Bickel will prepare your tooth, then apply the resin, shaping and sculpting it with dental tools until it looks just like a natural part of your smile.
PROS
- Takes only a single, 30-60 minute appointment
- Completely non-invasive, does not require any shots or removal of enamel
- Provides very natural-looking results
CONS
- Shorter lifespan compared to veneers
- Bonded teeth can become stained if you do not clean & maintain them properly
- Resin is not as strong as your natural teeth
WHAT ARE VENEERS? THE PROS & CONS
Veneers are usually made of porcelain. They are very thin, tooth-shaped cosmetic dental prostheses that are designed to fit over your teeth after they have been trimmed, and completely cover up and replace the front surfaces of your teeth.
Getting veneers takes just 2 appointments over a period of 2-3 weeks. During your first appointment, your teeth will be trimmed. Then, Dr. Bickel will take impressions of your teeth and send them to a trusted dental lab where your veneers will be made. You’ll get a temporary set of veneers to wear in the meantime to protect your natural teeth.
When your permanent veneers will arrive at our office, you’ll simply come in for a follow-up appointment. Dr. Bickel will check each veneer to make sure they fit perfectly, then they will be permanently attached to your teeth using dental cement.
PROS
- Porcelain veneers are just as strong as your natural teeth, and are completely stain-resistant
- Veneers are long-lasting, with a lifespan of 10-15 years or longer
- Veneers are the most versatile cosmetic treatment, and can treat almost any cosmetic issue
CONS
- Since veneers last longer, they are often more costly than dental bonding
- The veneer treatment is not reversible, as about 0.5mm of enamel must be removed from each tooth that is getting a veneer
- Some patients experience more tooth sensitivity after getting veneers
NOT SURE WHICH TREATMENT IS RIGHT FOR YOU? FIND OUT AT REDMOND ART OF DENTISTRY!
Dr. Bickel specializes in general and cosmetic dentistry in Richmond. If you’re still not sure whether veneers or dental bonding may be right for you, come in for a cosmetic consultation. Dr. Bickel will examine your mouth and help you determine which treatment is best for your based on your oral health, your budget, and your personal preferences.
Contact us now at (425) 386-7599 to get started, or stop by our office in Redmond at 16455 NE 85th Street, Suite #101, Redmond, WA 98052 for more information.