SHOULD I CHOOSE PORCELAIN VENEERS OR COMPOSITE BONDING?
Your teeth (and smile) play a vital role in creating the right first impressions. Unfortunately, most people tend to place a lot of stock in their perception of you based on those first few seconds of your meeting. This tendency drives the common desire to have straight white teeth- if only to enhance their smile. So what happens when your teeth aren’t in optimum condition?
The good news here is that advancements in dental care have yielded various solutions for corrective tooth care, and it’s easier than ever to find a reputable and experienced dentist who can address your specific dental needs with precision and care. Therefore, a range of alternatives is available to help you get that megawatt smile- one of the most common is veneers.
If you’re dissatisfied with the appearance of your teeth, you may be considering cosmetic dental procedures such as porcelain veneers or composite bonding. Both treatments can improve the look of your smile, but they work in different ways and have different pros and cons.
So, the question remains: porcelain veneers or composite bonding? Read on for more information that will help you choose.
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are thin shells of porcelain a dentist custom-makes to fit over the front of your teeth. Preparing your teeth for veneers entails your dentist extracting a small amount of enamel from your teeth’s surface. This removal allows the veneers to fit snugly and look natural. Porcelain veneers can be beneficial in improving the appearance of teeth that are discoloured, chipped, misshapen, or have gaps between them.
What Is Composite Bonding?
Composite bonding, on the other hand, involves applying a tooth-coloured resin to the surface of your teeth. The dentist then shapes and polishes the resin to look like a natural tooth. Composite bonding may help improve the appearance of teeth that are discoloured, chipped, misshapen, or have gaps between them. Unlike veneers, composite bonding doesn’t require the removal of any enamel from your teeth.
Differences Between Porcelain Veneers and Composite Bonding
So, what are the differences between porcelain veneers and composite bonding? Here are a few things to consider:
Time
It takes your dentist less time to execute composite bonding than to apply porcelain veneers. This timing difference stems from the bonding process being more ‘direct’, meaning your dentist can complete it in one appointment. Conversely, completing a porcelain veneer application takes at least two sittings.
Durability
If you care for them well, porcelain veneers generally last longer than composite bonding. Veneers typically last up to 15 years or more, while composite bonding may require replacement every 5-7 years.
Cost
Porcelain veneers tend to cost more than composite bonding. The cost of veneers can range from $1,800 to $2,500 per tooth, while composite bonding is usually less than $500 per tooth (and goes up to $840 at the upper level). However, in most cases, the level of care and replacement each type requires may help even out these cost differences over time.
Appearance
Both porcelain veneers and composite bonding can look natural and beautiful. However, porcelain veneers may look slightly more realistic because they reflect light like natural teeth.
Preparation
Porcelain veneers require the removal of enamel from your teeth, which can be uncomfortable for some people. Composite bonding requires no enamel removal; hence it may be a more comfortable option.
Maintenance
Porcelain veneers require the same maintenance as natural teeth, including daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups. Conversely, composite bonding may be more prone to staining and chipping, so maintaining its appearance requires more care.
However, both types require careful handling. Therefore, avoiding consuming hard foods (like ice and hard sweets) and using your teeth as tools is best.
In conclusion, both porcelain veneers and composite bonding can be great options for improving the appearance of your teeth. The choice between the two rests on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a long-lasting solution that looks natural and can withstand daily wear and tear, porcelain veneers may be the right choice. However, composite bonding may be better if you’re on a budget or prefer a less invasive procedure. Ultimately, it is best to consult your dentist to determine which option is best for you. Their expertise will be invaluable in guiding you to the most beneficial choice.
