Dental Bonding vs Porcelain Veneers

Dental issues can shatter self-esteem. Stains, chips or gaps can be problematic, and some dental issues can be unavoidable. For instance, teeth can have intrinsic stains from medications that are resistant to whitening procedures. However, there is a way to remedy all of these issues to instantly improve one's smile. As your Century City dentist, we are proud to outline two procedures that can help you.

Dental Bonding Los Angeles

Dental bonding involves using composite resin to reshape one or more teeth and to brighten one's smile. Composite resin, which is applied in layers, can be made to match any tooth color, so if only one tooth is cosmetically restored, it will match the surrounding teeth. This process usually involves a single office visit.

Porcelain Veneers Los Angeles

Porcelain veneers cover the front portion of the teeth, and this is accomplished, usually, between two office visits. The first visit involves preparing the teeth by taking impressions to create a customized fit. During the second appointment, customized veneers are affixed to the teeth. The veneers look natural because they match the teeth's existing size. The color of veneers are also custom-made, so it can dramatically brighten the patient's smile.

Dental Bonding and Porcelain Veneers Address Several Issues

The many patients who have benefited from dental bonding or porcelain veneers once had chips, cracks, intrinsic or extrinsic stains that are resistant to whitening, gaps and crooked teeth.

Dental Bonding and Porcelain Veneers are Long-Lasting

Both procedures last for a long time. Dental bonding can last up to 10 years, however, porcelain veneers can last up to 20 years with proper care.

Costs of Dental Bonding and Porcelain Veneers

The initial cost of dental bonding may seem like a more economical choice, but because porcelain veneers last a longer time, the cost is offset by its durability. For this reason, some prefer porcelain veneers to dental bonding, but it's all a matter of personal preference and whether the patient is a good candidate for either procedure.

Are They Considered Permanent Procedures?

Dental bonding and porcelain veneers do not last an infinite amount of time, but only porcelain veneers are considered "permanent." This is because a small amount of enamel is removed from the teeth to affix the veneers. After time, porcelain veneers will need to be replaced. If a veneer experiences damage, it will need to be replaced immediately to prevent further damage. Dental bonding can be reversed, so it is not considered a permanent procedure.

What are the Possible Side Effects of Either Procedure?

Slight tooth sensitivity may occur with porcelain veneers because enamel needs to be removed prior to placement of veneers. The sensitivity seems to come and go with some, and it usually subsides. Dental bonding has not been found to produce any side effects.

If you've considered either porcelain veneers or dental bonding or you have noticed that you're not achieving the whitening results you want, contact us immediately to schedule your consultation appointment with our Los Angeles dentist.