Should I Get Dental Veneers or Dental Bonding?

Needless to say, not everyone has teeth that are perfectly shaped and beautifully white. That’s where the debate begins about dental veneers or dental bonding. Whatever the choice, these procedures are about cosmetic enhancement – and the before/after difference can be dramatic.

The rundown on dental bonding

In the realm of dental cosmetics, and when deciding between veneers or dental bonding, dentists consider bonding to be the easier and less expensive of the two. The bonding procedure delivers excellent results and is commonly used to restore teeth that are chipped, discolored, or damaged.

The Pros

• typically one appointment is required
• moderate bonding is less expensive
• post-bonding, damage is easy to repair
• bonding can last for up to ten years

The Cons

• resin is not as strong as porcelain veneer
• without proper care, can chip more easily
• more prone to stains after several years
• more than a few teeth can be challenging

One of the biggest benefits of bonding is the range of issues that can be addressed. With skillful dental work, patients are assured of effective repairs and restorations for a number of conditions.

• decayed/damaged teeth
• chipped or cracked teeth
• teeth that are discolored
• closing up spaces or gaps
• total re-shaping of a tooth

Dental bonding resin can provide excellent cosmetic results. It can be custom-shaped as required; colours can match natural teeth; and the material can effectively used to restore a natural tooth.

The rundown on dental veneers

If you’re deciding between veneers or dental bonding, it’s important to understand some of the differences. Veneers are thin translucent “shells” that actually fit over existing teeth. They are custom-made, and designed to correct misshapen teeth or teeth that are permanently stained.

The Pros

• veneers will create a white, uniform smile
• they are slightly translucent and stainless
• they are strong and less likely to chip/break
• the lifetime of the procedure is about 15 years

The Cons

• dental veneers remain permanent on teeth
• the procedure is considered to be irreversible
• veneers are slightly costlier than bonding
• the procedure takes more time to complete

Once examined by the dentist, it may be that veneers are the best option (between veneers or dental bonding). One of the determining factors will be the potential result of the procedure.

Patients with serious tooth decay may require dental treatment prior to any veneer application.

If the dentist determines that you have poor tooth structure, then veneers may not be the better option. And finally, if a patient is known to grind their teeth, this too will preclude the use of veneers. Here, it’s important for the dentist to assess the situation and make recommendations.

Dental veneers and dental bonding at the Mackenzie Dental Centre

Whether you eventually decide on veneers or dental bonding, both options are available at the Mackenzie Dental Centre. After careful examination, Dr. Lloyd Pedvis will recommend which of the procedures is best, based on your personal circumstances, and your overall oral health.

Dr. Pedvis offers a range of cosmetic dentistry procedures, with state-of-the-art technology, and a team of skilled associates. Depending on the procedure, many patients can actually walk out of the clinic after one visit, with a fabulous new smile, and cosmetic results that will last for years.

For patients in Vaughan, Woodbridge and Maple, the Mackenzie Dental Centre provides a full range of family dental health services - from regular dental check-ups; to more involved dental implants; to emergency treatments. To find out more about bonding and veneers, call Dr. Pedvis directly at 905-417-8700. To explore other services, or contact us for more information click here.