Your teeth are essential to your appearance, so when they're not as white as you'd like or are chipped or damaged, finding a solution quickly is crucial to your self-confidence.
Cosmetic dentistry is a great way to achieve the smile you've always dreamed of – but which treatment is best for you? Two major options are veneers and dental bonding, which are successful treatments for various dental issues.
If you're ready to plunge into cosmetic dentistry, the skilled dentists at Lancaster Dental Care Associates in Lancaster, California, can help. Our team offers dental bonding and veneer treatments to give you a beautiful smile.
Dental bonding is a cosmetic procedure where our team applies resin material to your teeth to change their size, shape, or color. We use dental bonding for various cosmetic dental concerns, such as:
You may want dental bonding if you're unhappy with the shape of some of your teeth or want to conceal minor imperfections without spending thousands of dollars on higher-end treatments.
The resin material we use for dental bonding is the same as those for tooth-colored and regular cavity fillings to protect the roots from gum disease and recession exposure.
Dental bonding isn't permanent because we don't remove enamel; that means you need to have touch-ups done more often, about every three to ten years.
Veneers are simply porcelain or composite shells that fit over the front of your teeth to give you a more aesthetic appearance. They help to cover or conceal various dental problems, including:
Veneers are a great option if you have good dental health. They may not be for you if you have a lot of cavities or significant gum disease.
It's important to note that veneers are a permanent cosmetic procedure we can't reverse. We must remove some enamel from the front of your teeth for the veneers to stick, making them a permanent change.
Different forms of veneers include composite, porcelain, and no-prep veneers. Our team discusses each option with you to give you all the information you need to make an informed decision.
A lot of thought goes into deciding on a cosmetic treatment for dental problems. Our team carefully evaluates your teeth and goals to develop the right treatment plan for your needs.
While both veneers and dental bonding are excellent treatments for various dental problems, there are a few things you should take into account before making a decision, including:
Some insurances don't cover cosmetic dental procedures, so cost is a consideration when deciding between veneers and dental bonding. Veneers are often porcelain, which is more expensive than dental bonding material.
However, veneers are an excellent investment because they often last longer than dental bonding, making the up-front cost worth it in some cases.
Both dental bonding material and veneers are highly durable, but one usually lasts longer than the other. In some cases, porcelain veneers typically last longer than dental bonding, up to 25 years.
If you're looking for a long-term solution to teeth whitening, veneers may be the better option. For cracks or chips, you may be okay with getting dental bonding.
Your overall goal is essential in choosing between dental bonding and veneers. For instance, veneers might be the best option if you're craving whiter teeth and whitening treatments haven't helped.
However, dental bonding or a mix of the two may be your best option if you have damaged or unevenly shaped teeth.
The great news is that we can match veneers and dental bonding material to your natural tooth color for a flawless appearance. However, veneers are stain-resistant, making them a better option for a long-term white smile. The bonding resin may stain over time, requiring us to replace it over time.
Ultimately, it's up to you and our team to decide which option fits your needs and your price range for a glowing smile.
To learn more about dental bonding and veneers, call Lancaster Dental Care Associates today or request a consultation with the team on our website.
