Cosmetic Bonding Vs. Porcelain Veneers: The Benefits

Did you know that you don’t have to pay an arm and a leg (or grind down all of your natural teeth) for a beautiful, picture-perfect smile?

For years, people have paid thousands of dollars to use porcelain veneers to cover their teeth and transform their smiles, but within the last several years, the use of cosmetic bonding to reshape smiles and redefine dentistry has become increasingly popular and unbelievably affordable. Here's what to know about your options for a radiant smile and the benefits of each.

What is Dental Bonding?

Dental bonding is a cosmetic dentistry procedure in which tooth-colored resin is applied to and hardened around the existing tooth, individually sculpted, and then “bonded” together. Bonding is often considered by patients who wish to repair a cracked or chipped tooth, enhance the appearance of discolored teeth, close existing gaps between teeth, change the shape of a tooth, or fill cavities in decayed teeth.

How is Bonding Different From Veneers?

Unlike veneers, which must be specially designed in a lab prior to application, dental bonding is quick and easy and can often be completed within one office visit. To prepare for bonding application, your tooth will be slightly etched to make the surface rougher, and then will be brushed lightly with a conditioning liquid to help the bonding adhere to the tooth. Preparation for veneer application, on the other hand, requires a dentist to reshape your natural tooth by grinding away enamel. Because bonding is such an easy fix, it often costs thousands of dollars less than a porcelain veneer, and can still last upwards of five years with proper care.

Cosmetic bonding resin isn’t quite as stain-resistant or as durable as a porcelain veneer might be. However, you won’t have to change the way you floss or brush your teeth to maintain resin color or lifespan. Similar to natural teeth, cigarette smoke, coffee, tea, and other highly-staining foods and drinks can discolor bonding resin. Because there are small limitations to dental bonding, the procedure is often used as a practical and affordable fix for small cosmetic changes and for corrections in low-bite areas like front teeth.

Schedule An Appointment

For a quick fix to a picture-perfect smile, consider dental bonding as an alternative to porcelain veneers. During an appointment with our San Francisco team, we can discuss the best options for you and your smile. Schedule an appointment by calling (415) 523-9178 or booking online!

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