Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are a wonderful treatment for patients. In the past, porcelain veneers were the main type of dental veneer because that material was more cosmetic than dental composites. Today, that is no longer the case. Dental composites (bonded veneers) are specifically developed to look like natural enamel.
Conditions we correct with dental bonding include:
- Spaces between teeth
- Chipped teeth
- Stains and discoloration
- Cracks
Dental bonding is also used to provide tooth-coloured fillings.
How Dental Bonding Works
To begin, the surface of your tooth is mildly roughened. This provides a large surface area for the bonding materials to adhere to.
The Dentist then colours the resin to the desired shade and applies it to your tooth’s surface. They also sculpt the resin into the desired shape to provide an aesthetically pleasing result. A high-intensity light is used to harden the material, after which the surface is finely polished until it achieves the gloss and texture of your natural tooth.
When is Dental Bonding Used?
Dental bonding is an economical option that can be used for a variety of situations, including the following:
- To repair cracked or chipped teeth
- To close spaces between teeth
- To make teeth look longer
- To cover and improve the appearance of discolored or spotted teeth
- To change the shape of teeth
- To fill a cavity, as a more cosmetic and healthy alternative to silver amalgam
- To fill in worn areas or grooves on teeth
- To protect a portion of a tooth’s root that has become exposed because of gum recession
Dental Bonding as Compared to Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are used to fix the same issues that dental bonding corrects. Veneers are also used for more extensive smile makeovers, such as making mildly crooked teeth look straight and changing the shape of teeth.
Dental bonding has several advantages that make it very suitable for minor or temporary changes.
- Dental bonding is a one-visit, relatively fast procedure.
- Little preparation is needed on the teeth.
- Anesthesia is rarely needed, unless the bonding material is being used to fill a cavity
- Bonding can be a good temporary cosmetic fix, until a more permanent solution, such as crowns or veneers, can be obtained.
However, dental bonding is subject to cracking and chipping, and will lose part of its shape, colour and finish within a few years. Porcelain veneers are longer-lasting and can have a more aesthetic finish.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.