Have you been thinking about improving your smile? Bonding vs veneers is likely one of your most important decisions.
Both options have their advantages and disadvantages. Knowing which to choose can seem impossible when you don’t have proper guidance. Understanding the differences – and similarities – between the two procedures is essential.
Both bonding and veneers enhance the look of your teeth. You’ll want to choose one over the other depending on your specific needs and resources. Before making a final decision, it’s essential to understand everything about each option.
Bonding Vs Veneers
Before choosing between bonding and veneers, the first thing to know is understanding what each term means.
Dental bonding is a cosmetic procedure. This means it doesn’t do anything to improve the function or strength of your teeth.
During bonding, a dentist applies a composite resin to your natural tooth. This improves the color, shape, and size of the tooth. They mold the resin into shape and then harden it with a light that bonds it to the tooth (thus called “bonding”). It’s a great option for fixing small gaps and chips and correcting discoloration.
Veneers serve the same purpose as bonding. They make minor to moderate improvements to your teeth.
Veneers are thin shells customized to each person and placed over the front of each tooth. This creates a consistent look in color, shape, and alignment. Application requires the removal of a small amount of your natural tooth enamel.
Cost
While cost shouldn’t be the only factor in choosing between veneers and bonding, it’s still essential.
In most cases, dental bonding is more affordable than veneers. The procedure typically costs between $300 and $600 per tooth. It’s a relatively simple process that doesn’t require a dental lab, which keeps the cost reasonable.
On the other hand, veneers cost more because it takes multiple return visits to your dental office, and manufacturing the veneers at a lab. Porcelain veneers, which are widely considered the best option, cost between $900 and $2500 per tooth. Composite veneers, the budget-friendlier option, are typically between $250 and $1500 per tooth.
Based on cost alone, bonding is the better option. However, it isn’t right for everyone. It’s also important to consider the upfront vs the long-term costs. While you might pay more for veneers initially, over time, they become more durable, so they may end up costing you less.
Appearance
Assuming you have the budget to choose between bonding and veneers based on functionality and aesthetics, there are a few things to consider.
Bonding is great for fixing minor imperfections in your smile. They’re rarely necessary, even if they’re in your budget, when you don’t need significant corrections.
Remember that because you need to remove a bit of resin from your natural teeth, veneers cause minor damage and are permanent. However, veneers provide a natural and flawless look and better mimic the look of your natural teeth. They are also customized for each person, so you’ll get the uniformity you want in your smile.
What is the bottom line when it comes to appearance?
Veneers offer dramatic improvement in the look of your smile. They’re the best option for you if you want to make an impactful change. However, dental bonding can still provide noticeable improvements if you only need minor adjustments and want a quick, simple solution.
What to Consider When Choosing Bonding vs Veneers
You’ll want to consider several things on a personal level when choosing between veneers and bonding to improve your smile. Both options offer cosmetic improvements but differ in durability, cost, and how they affect your natural teeth. Understanding your long-term goals and expectations will help you make the best choice.
Choose veneers if you have:
- Deep stains that don’t respond to whitening
- Significant misalignment of teeth that requires more than minor reshaping
- A desire for a long-lasting, stain-resistant solution
- The willingness to remove a thin layer of enamel for placement
Choose bonding if you:
- Have a limited budget and want a more affordable option
- Prefer a non-invasive treatment that keeps your natural enamel intact
- Aren’t ready to commit to a permanent solution and may wish to change in the future
- Only need minor cosmetic fixes, such as small chips or gaps
Consult Your Dentist
Ultimately, the best way to determine whether dental bonding or veneers are best for you is to consult a dentist experienced in both procedures. A professional evaluation will help you understand which option best fits your needs, goals, and budget.
A confident, beautiful smile starts with making the right choice. We can assess your current situation, explain your options, and help you make the best choice. Call us today or make an appointment online to learn more.
