Dental bonding is a cosmetic procedure that uses composite resin to alter the shape, size, and color of teeth. It is a great option for patients with mild tooth decay, cavities, or gaps. To help you decide between dental bonding vs veneers, your dentist will consult with you about your cosmetic goals, take X-rays, and then prepare the tooth by roughening and conditioning it for the bonding material. They will then apply a unique cement and shine a light on it to set the bonding.
Bonding
Dental bonding involves covering a discolored or damaged tooth with composite resin, which blends invisibly with the rest of the tooth’s structure. It is a popular cosmetic dentistry procedure for a variety of issues, including chipped teeth, gaps or cavities. Composite resin is also more translucent than your natural enamel, so it can correct minor color problems with ease. The dentist will choose a shade of composite that perfectly matches your natural teeth, as every person’s teeth have unique coloring.
This procedure is often completed in one office visit. Your dentist will roughen the surface of your tooth, apply the resin and cure it with a special light. Dental bonding can last anywhere from three to 10 years, but it is not as strong as porcelain veneers and is not stain-resistant. It is therefore best suited to fixing small cosmetic changes and for correcting teeth in areas that do not receive a lot of bite pressure (front teeth, for example). A good oral hygiene routine involving brushing twice per day, flossing regularly and visiting the dentist for regular cleanings is essential to maintaining your bonding’s longevity.
Veneers
Veneers offer a more dramatic change in the shape, color, and appearance of teeth. They are also more susceptible to staining and can require more maintenance than dental bonding. For this reason, they may be more appropriate for people who want to achieve a more dramatic aesthetic.
Composite veneers are a versatile solution that can address numerous minor flaws, including discoloration, chips, and small gaps. However, they aren’t ideal for covering more extensive problems like cracked or crooked teeth.
A cosmetic dentist can create a natural-looking finish with veneers, allowing you to confidently smile in social and professional settings. In order to get the most out of your treatment, you should take care to follow proper oral hygiene and avoid harmful habits like chewing on pens or biting your nails. Porcelain veneers can last from five to 20 years with proper care. They are a long-term investment that can improve your confidence and boost your self-esteem.
Preparation
Unlike veneers, dental bonding typically doesn’t require the removal of much natural tooth structure. It is minimally invasive and typically completed in a single appointment.
Your dentist first cleans the area to be treated and applies an etching liquid to roughen the surface for improved adhesion. They then apply the bonding material, a putty-like composite resin, to the tooth and shape it into the desired appearance. They may use a shade guide to ensure the composite matches your surrounding teeth.
Immediately after the procedure, your bonded tooth may feel a little rough, but these areas will wear down with regular chewing and normal oral hygiene. However, bonded teeth are not as durable as natural tooth enamel and they may chip or break more easily. They are also not as stain-resistant as porcelain restorations. To help them last longer, avoid biting your nails, chewing on pens or ice cubes and using your teeth to open packages.
Post-Procedure Care
Your dentist will probably recommend an oral rinse to keep your mouth clean and help manage any discomfort and sensitivity that you might experience. You should also continue to visit your dental hygienist for your regular cleanings and check-ups.
Once the tooth bonding material is applied, your dentist will use a light to harden it. Depending on your case, they may need to trim and smooth the composite resin in order to get the desired appearance. This is particularly common when the composite resin is used to fill chips and cracks.
The bonded resin is not as strong as your natural enamel or veneers, so it can chip and break more easily. If it does, you will need to schedule an appointment with your dentist to have it repaired or replaced. Also, since the bonding material is not as durable as your natural teeth, it is prone to staining more easily. You should avoid eating or drinking anything that will stain your teeth for the first 24 hours after the procedure.