General Denitstry

Veneers Vs. Bonding: Which Is Right For Me?

Interested in cosmetic dentistry in Williamsburg? Not sure if you should choose veneers or dental bonding? In this blog from the office of James A. Burden and Associates, we’ll look at a few of the pros and cons of each treatment to help you make the right choice.

The Pros & Cons Of Veneers

Veneers are thin shells made out of porcelain that are designed to fit over your natural teeth. They’re attached to the fronts of your teeth, covering them up and improving your smile. Let’s explore the pros and cons of veneers now. 

PROS

  • Extremely versatile – Veneers are the most versatile cosmetic dentistry treatment, and can be used to cover up almost any imperfection.
  • Very natural look & feel – The porcelain used for veneers is similar to natural enamel in color, translucence, and hardness, so your new smile will look completely natural.
  • Minimal care required – To care for your new smile, just brush and floss normally and see Dr. Burden for a consultation every six months. 

CONS 

  • Non-reversible – Veneer placement requires the permanent removal of some enamel from your teeth, so the treatment cannot be reversed. You’ll need to plan to have veneers for the rest of your life.
  • Expensive – Veneers are usually the priciest cosmetic dentistry treatment, so they may not be a great option if you’re on budget.
  • Longer treatment – It will take at least two appointments over a period of 2-3 weeks to have your teeth prepared, and to fit and place your veneers.

The Pros & Cons Of Dental Bonding

Dental bonding involves using a tooth-colored resin to reshape your tooth and cover up imperfections like stained teeth, gaps in your smile, uneven teeth, and more. Here is a look at a few pros and cons of dental bonding.

PROS

  • Very affordable – Bonding is a more inexpensive option compared to veneers, so it’s a good choice if you’re on a tight budget.
  • Fast treatment – It only takes about 30-60 minutes to treat each tooth, and multiple teeth can be treated in a single appointment.
  • Non-invasive – Bonding requires no removal of your natural tooth structure, so it’s a good idea if you would prefer a non-invasive cosmetic treatment. 

CONS

  • Shorter lifespan – Bonding usually lasts between 5-10 years, while veneers can usually last 10-15 years or longer.
  • Less durable – The resin used for bonding can chip a bit more easily than your natural enamel or a porcelain veneer, so you will need to take extra precautions to keep your smile intact.
  • Not as versatile as veneers – Bonding is quite versatile, but this treatment is a bit more limited in scope compared to veneers, so it may not be the best choice for very complex cosmetic issues

Still Not Sure? Get A Consultation With Dr. Burden! 

Dr. James Burden can help you learn more about veneers vs. bonding, and help you choose the option that’s right for your smile and your budget. Contact us online or give us a call at (757) 229-1224 to schedule a cosmetic consultation in Williamsburg right away.