Bonding VS Veneers: Which is Best?

Everyone can have a stunning smile with cosmetic dentistry because there are more options than ever to address common aesthetic concerns, like discoloration, chips, or gaps between teeth. However, dental bonding and veneers continue to rank among the most popular cosmetic procedures annually. Although they have many similarities, it’s important to understand the difference between veneers and bonding to make the best investment for your smile.

Dental Bonding VS Veneers

Dental bonding uses a composite resin material that’s shaded to the color of enamel to blend in when used to treat minor aesthetic issues. A veneer differs because it’s a restoration that’s bonded to the front side of a tooth to improve its color, size, and shape. When used on the teeth visible when smiling, they can treat several concerns at once. While both methods can provide significant improvement, here are a few things to consider when choosing a treatment:

Complexity of Improvements

Dental bonding is recommended for patients with one or more teeth needing minor improvements, like covering an exposed tooth root, fixing a chip, or covering a stain. Veneers can be more suitable for patients wanting to correct many issues, like chips, discoloration, and gaps. 

Timeframe

If you want a beautiful smile in a hurry, either treatment can provide quick results, depending on your situation. Typically, cosmetic bonding takes 30 to 60 minutes or longer if you’re treating multiple teeth. In some situations, your cosmetic dentist may recommend more than one appointment. Veneers take a little longer. After any preparatory procedures, you can expect to need 2 more trips to your dentist to revamp your smile.

Life Expectancy

Both solutions are durable and can thrive for years with the right care. On average, dental bonding lasts for 5 to 10 years before needing to be replaced. Veneers have a life expectancy of 10 to 15 years, but it’s not uncommon for them to last for much longer with the correct maintenance. 

Treatment Process 

Cosmetic bonding is a quick and virtually pain-free procedure. Your dentist applies a weak acid to the tooth to open the pores in your enamel. Your tooth is rinsed before the resin is applied, which is hardened using a special dental light. Veneers require a more invasive process because a small amount of enamel must be removed to ensure the restorations sit flush. Although it doesn’t damage your tooth, your enamel can’t regenerate, making the treatment irreversible. 

Cost

Various factors affect the cost of either procedure, but dental bonding is often the most affordable upfront. It can be covered under your dental insurance if needed for medical reasons. However, veneers can be the most cost-effective because they eliminate needing multiple procedures and have a longer lifespan to save money down the road.

Cosmetic dentistry is a big investment, but you don’t have to make the decision alone. Your dentist will help you choose the best treatment for a picture-perfect smile. 

About Dr. Jim Lee

Dr. Lee earned his dental degree from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry and regularly continues his education in specialty services, like cosmetic dentistry. If you are ready to improve your smile, contact our office today to request your consultation.