If you’re looking to enhance your smile by covering damage and discoloration on your teeth, you may be exploring different options in cosmetic dentistry. While veneers are well-known due to their popularity with celebrities, they’re not the only option. Dental bonding can conceal many of the same issues. So what’s the difference?

What Are Veneers?

A dental veneer is a porcelain “shell” made to fit over your tooth. It is intended to last for many years; therefore, it is very durable and will be attached with a strong adhesive. Your dentist will need to remove some of your tooth’s exterior before making the molds for the veneers, as this will ensure a more natural fit when they are applied. Veneers can cover a wide variety of tooth imperfections, giving you the kind of brilliant smile you see on the covers of magazines.

What Is Bonding?

In contrast to veneers, which are made in advance and then placed on the teeth, dental bonding involves applying resin directly to the teeth, then shaping and molding it. Once the resin is in place and correctly shaped, it is then cured and hardened. Bonding is suitable for many minor flaws like chips, cracks, and discoloration. While it is a quick fix and somewhat less invasive than the veneer process, it tends to be less durable and may discolor over time.

So Which Is Better?

The short answer to this question, it depends on your individual situation! Neither is a bad choice, and both have pros and cons. Here are some things you might wish to take into consideration when making your decision:

Choose bonding if:

• You only need minor corrections on one or a few teeth.
• You want a natural-looking treatment that’s minimally invasive and won’t necessarily require a permanent commitment.
• You want to finish your cosmetic dentistry in a single appointment.
• You need a less expensive option than veneers.

Choose veneers if:

• You’re looking for a total smile overhaul or your visible tooth damage is extensive.
• You’re looking for a permanent solution to an imperfect smile and are fine with not being able to return to your natural teeth.
• You want a durable fix that will stay unstained and intact for many years.
• You don’t mind the extra expense and multiple appointments.

What Are The Next Steps?

For those looking for cosmetic dentistry in Northern Virginia, RenovaSmiles offers both bonding and veneers at all four locations. Your dentist will talk with you to determine what path to take for a smile makeover that will meet your needs. Schedule an appointment now to start your journey to a more confident smile!