It’s important to feel confident about your smile—but having stained, cracked, or misshapen teeth can affect your self-esteem. Teeth bleaching can help with stained teeth, but for some patients, it may not be the best option to improve your teeth. Instead, you may consider veneers or bonding.
Tooth veneers and tooth bonding are two different processes that help improve the look and function of your teeth. Both tooth veneers and bonding involve applying a thin layer of material onto the surface of the tooth to improve its appearance. Veneers cost significantly more than bonding, but the results typically last years longer.
Veneers
Tooth veneers are thin pieces of porcelain that are custom-made to fit each individual tooth. Porcelain is very durable and doesn’t stain easily, which makes it a long-term dental option. In fact, tooth veneers can typically last for 10 to 15 years or even more!
At Dakota Dental, the process of getting veneers typically involves three visits:
- The first appointment consists of a consultation, where your family dentist diagnoses the problem and creates and a customized plan for your treatment.
- The second appointment is designed to prepare your dental veneers. A computer is used to scan your teeth and mouth, and these images are digitally sent to the lab to create your veneers.
- At the final appointment, the veneers are placed, and you get to enjoy your new smile!
Bonding
Composite bonding typically requires one trip to the dentist. With bonding, a composite resin is applied directly onto the tooth. The tooth is first treated with a mild etching solution to roughen its surface, so the resin can better adhere to it. The dentist then applies the resin to the tooth and shapes it. A light is then used to harden and set the resin, and the dentist then polishes and smooths it out.
The process of dental bonding is faster than tooth veneers, and it also costs significantly less money. However, bonding isn’t as durable as veneers, and it may only last between five to seven years. Bonding is also more susceptible to staining than veneers, so it’s important to talk with your dentist to find out which option is right for you.
The dentists at Dakota Dental are happy to discuss veneers and bonding with patients to help them find the right fit. For more information or to schedule a consultation with the Dakota Dental team, contact them today!