Dental Bonding vs. Porcelain Veneers

At the Warsaw cosmetic dentistry practice of Dr. William Stofer, we offer a broad range of dental treatments to our patients. When it comes to cosmetic care, patients often ask us about the benefits and disadvantages of dental bonding versus porcelain veneers. Here, we review the differences between these procedures.

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is a procedure that has been performed by dentists for decades. It involves the application of a composite resin (a tooth-colored, putty-like material) that is shaped over the tooth to mask flaws. Although the procedure is effective in concealing dental imperfections, it is generally considered an inferior treatment when compared to porcelain veneers. When compared to veneers, the disadvantages of bonding include:

• It does not look as natural
• The composite resin stains faster
• The color and shine of the composite resin begins to fade within a couple of years
• Bonding does not last as long
• Patients have to be more careful about what they eat and drink so as to not chip, crack, or stain the bonding material
• Patients have to visit the dentist for more touch-ups

Crafting Natural Looking Porcelain Veneers

Although some people are under the impression that veneers look fake, they are actually considered to be the more natural looking option. Veneers may not look as natural when they are made in too white of a shade (per some patients' preference), are too bulky, or are too big for the patient's face. Choosing a dentist who is experienced in smile design and works with a reputable dental lab is the key to getting natural looking veneers.

When a skilled lab technician crafts the porcelain veneers to optimal specifications that enhance the appearance of your real teeth, they look quite natural. The experience and artistry of the dental ceramist plays an important role in making the veneers look as real as possible; he or she can add the right amount of translucency on the biting edge of the veneer, vary the shade from the gum line to biting surface to mimic the appearance of a natural tooth, make the veneer as thin as possible, and etch the surface. At Dental Solutions, Dr. Stofer works with the area's most talented lab technicians so our Warsaw porcelain veneers patients receive expertly crafted, natural looking veneers.

In addition, the dentist must formulate the ideal specifications for the color, shape, and size of the veneer to ensure that it complements the patient's unique features. Dr. Stofer uses a number of tools to help him determine what the veneers should look like, including a digital imaging system that allows patients to view potential results before they undergo treatment. This helps our patients decide if porcelain veneers are the right cosmetic solution for their needs.

When compared to dental bonding, veneers are considered to be the more natural looking option. Porcelain is a denser, stronger, and more durable material when compared to the composite resin solution used for dental bonding. It is also more color-stable. That said, there are some disadvantages of porcelain veneers when compared to dental bonding:

• Porcelain veneers are more expensive
• The porcelain veneers treatment process takes more time, and requires at least two dental visits; dental bonding can be completed in one short appointment
• The placement of veneers requires the removal of a small amount of tooth enamel
• Veneers can't be repaired; if they chip or crack, they must be replaced with a new veneer

To schedule an appointment to discuss dental bonding and porcelain veneers, contact our Warsaw practice today.