Unfortunately, we can’t all be born with a perfect smile! Many people experience cosmetic issues such as cracked or chipped teeth, discolourations, misalignment, and spacing. However, these flaws are no match for modern dentistry.
Dental bonding and veneers are two common and effective treatments for a wide range of cosmetic issues. But which one is right for you?
Dental Bonding
What is dental bonding?
Dental bonding is a procedure that uses composite resin to make minor repairs to teeth. This resin is bonded onto the front surface of the tooth to change its size, shape, and colour. It can repair a single tooth or rebuild multiple teeth at once.
Ultimately, dental bonding is a quick and effective way to restore the look and functionality of your teeth. Not only does it strengthen your teeth and restore the appearance of your smile, but it’s non-invasive. In most cases, there is no need for anesthesia and your tooth stays intact.
How does dental bonding work?
During your appointment, your dentist selects a composite resin colour that is closest to the natural hue of your teeth. This allows the repaired teeth to blend in perfectly with the rest of your smile.
Your dentist then applies a bonding agent to the tooth, which is used to adhere to the composite resin. Ultraviolet light is used to shape and harden the resin. The last step is thorough polishing so you can step out of your dental appointment smiling confidently.
The entire dental bonding treatment takes between 30-60 minutes.
Who can benefit the most from dental bonding?
Dental bonding is best for individuals with small irregularities and minor damage. For example, dental bonding might be right for you if you have any of the following issues:
- Discolouration or minor stains.
- Chipped or cracked teeth.
- Misshapen teeth.
- Gaps between your teeth.
- Short teeth that you want to appear longer.
- Restore a broken tooth to the correct size.
- Exposed tooth roots from receding gums due to gum disease.
Veneers
What are veneers?
Veneers are thin, tooth-coloured shells that are bonded to the front part of your teeth. A single veneer is placed on a single tooth, whereas a full set is applied to multiple teeth to improve the overall appearance of your smile. The primary purpose of veneers is to mask imperfections such as discolourations, irregularities in size and shape, misalignment, and chips.
There are two kinds of veneers: porcelain and composite. Porcelain veneers are long-lasting, stain-resistant, and durable. They protect your teeth from further harm and create a more aesthetic smile. Your porcelain veneers are made specifically for your teeth. Composite veneers, on the other hand, are made from a cost-effective composite resin that is easy to repair.
How are porcelain veneers applied?
In most cases, porcelain veneers are applied over two dental visits. During your first appointment, your dentist begins by removing a thin layer of enamel from your teeth.
A mould is then made from your teeth, which is used to create your custom veneers. They are manufactured to fit perfectly and colour-matched to blend in with the rest of your teeth.
You may be given temporary veneers until your custom-made porcelain veneers are ready. These temporary veneers are extremely fragile—so eat carefully!
Once your new veneers are ready, it’s time for your second appointment. First, the temporary veneers are removed. Then, your dentist adheres your porcelain veneers to your teeth, using composite resin cement.
How are composite veneers applied?
Applying composite veneers is similar to the dental bonding process. Multiple layers of composite resin are bonded to the surface of your damaged or flawed tooth. Your dentist selects a colour that matches the rest of your teeth, ensuring a natural look.
Each layer of resin is hardened using a bright light. Once all the layers have been applied and hardened, your dentist begins to shape and polish. The end result is a natural and improved tooth.
Who are porcelain or composite veneers right for?
Veneers can dramatically improve the quality of your smile. However, they are not right for everyone. Porcelain and composite veneers are best for patients with minimal damage, severe stains, minor rotations, and mild misalignment.
If your teeth have sustained extensive damage or are extremely rotated or crowded, then crowns may be the better option. Furthermore, anyone with periodontal disease or bruxism should avoid veneers.
You are a good candidate for veneers if you have any of the following:
- Stains or discolouration.
- Cracked or chipped teeth.
- Mild to moderately crooked teeth.
- Overlapping teeth.
- Gaps between your teeth.
- Worn teeth.
Should you get veneers or dental bonding?
Ultimately, the answer depends on the amount of damage, the level of treatment that you require, and your goals. Your dentist at Bristol Dental Clinic can help you determine which treatment is best for you.
The Pros of Dental Bonding:
- Dental bonding is a faster procedure that instantly improves your smile.
- Dental bonding is not invasive.
- Dental bonding is best for small chips and cracks.
- Dental bonding is more affordable than veneers.
- Dental bonding can last for up to 10 years if properly cared for.
The Pros of Veneers:
- Veneers cover stains, cracks, and poorly shaped teeth better than bonding.
- Veneers are highly resistant to staining—more so than dental bonding.
- Veneers are much more robust and last for around 15 years.
- Veneers tend to look more natural.
- Veneers are best for patients that need to make more significant changes to their smile.
Veneers and Dental Bonding in Mississauga
Both veneers and dental bonding procedures are excellent options to dramatically improve the quality of your smile. They can repair a range of cosmetic issues such as chips, cracks, discolouration, and spacing. Veneers are typically better for larger transformations, whereas dental bonding is preferred for minor restorations.
If you have more questions about which treatment is best for you (or if you’re ready to schedule a consultation), contact a dental expert at Bristol Dental Clinic in Mississauga.
To learn more about veneers and dental bonding in Mississauga, call Bristol Dental Clinic at 866-673-2109 or contact us here.
