If you have a tooth that’s cracked, chipped, or otherwise damaged, you might be thinking about ways to restore it. Dental veneers and dental bonding are two popular options when it comes to tooth restoration, but which one is right for you? Here are a few pros and cons about each option to help you decide.
What are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are thin sheets of tooth-colored material that adhere to the front of your tooth, concealing imperfections and correcting any crookedness or chips. This material is stain-resistant and gives the appearance of a perfect, straight tooth. Each veneer is custom made to fit your tooth perfectly, ensuring that it will blend in with the rest of your mouth.
Dental veneers are a great option for tooth restoration, as they’re sturdy and long-lasting. However, they do require that your dentist remove part of your tooth’s natural enamel so that they will fit flush against the rest of your teeth. In addition, veneers can take multiple appointments to receive.
What is Dental Bonding?
Dental bonds are made of a type of tooth-colored resin that is molded and shaped to fit your tooth. Dental bonding can be used to reconstruct parts of a chipped or broken tooth as well as to repair damage and conceal discoloration. It can also help fill in gaps between teeth with no need for orthodontics.
Dental bonding is usually less expensive than veneers, takes less time, and does not require the removal of a big part of the tooth’s natural enamel in order to be effective. That said, dental bonds are more fragile than veneers and are more prone to damage over the years.
While each option has its pros and cons, your ultimate choice is up to your and your dentist. Talk to your dentist about the different options so that you can decide which is right for your teeth.