Would you like to have a brighter, straighter, more attractive smile? Modern dentistry offers a number of cosmetic treatments that can help you achieve your goals. Two such treatments are direct bonding and porcelain veneers. In this blog post, we will discuss both of these options with the goal of helping you decide which one is the better choice for your unique circumstances.
What Is Direct Bonding?
During the direct bonding process, your dentist molds a tooth-colored resin over the tooth and shapes it in a way that disguises the tooth’s flaws. The resin is the same material that is used in tooth-colored fillings; it has a unique structure that allows it to bond directly with dental enamel with minimal tooth preparation. A special curing light hardens the resin to the point where it is strong enough to stand up to all the rigors of everyday eating and drinking.
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are ultra-thin pieces of porcelain that your dentist permanently attaches to the fronts of your teeth. They are custom-designed to help you achieve a specific color, size, and shape for your teeth. Applying the veneers typically takes two appointments to your dentist’s office. During the first visit, your dentist prepares the teeth and takes images and impressions of them. A dental laboratory creates the veneers, and your dentist attaches them at your second appointment.
Which Is Better?
One dental treatment is not necessarily “better” than the other, but one may be better for you. Your cosmetic dentist would be happy to help you compare the pros and cons of both treatments so you can make an informed and confident decision about how to proceed.
Direct bonding might be the right choice if you:
- Have just one or two teeth whose appearance you would like to improve.
- Are concerned about the cost of cosmetic dentistry. Bonding generally costs much less than porcelain veneers.
- Would like a fast and simple way to improve the way your smile looks.
On the other hand, porcelain veneers may be ideal if you:
- Would like to have more than just one or two teeth treated.
- Want your results to last as long as possible. While direct bonding may last for several years, porcelain veneers have the potential to endure for decades.
- Are interested in maximum durability. Porcelain is more resistant to stains than the bonding material, and it is able to endure more wear and tear.
Are you ready to achieve the bright and beautiful smile of your dreams? Either porcelain veneers or direct bonding may be able to help you reach your goal.
About Us
New Haven Dental Group has served the dental needs of our community for more than 40 years. We are proud to have a team of highly trained dentists who are able to perform a broad range of general, advanced, and cosmetic services. We have four conveniently located offices, including our one in Woodbridge. If you would like to talk to us about how you can improve the health and/or appearance of your teeth, contact us today.