The demand for cosmetic dentistry in the UK continues to grow over the years, particularly among young British people. A recent survey showed that over 33% of the respondents under 35 had undergone cosmetic dentistry procedures such as teeth whitening, bonding, or braces in the past year. Among the popular cosmetic dentistry procedures, dental bonding and veneers are used frequently for smile makeovers. If you’re considering cosmetic dentistry treatment and are thinking, “Should I get dental bonding or veneers, this blog is for you.
This blog explains everything you need to know about dental bonding and veneers, and the option you should prefer for your smile makeover treatment. Read this blog till the end so that you can make an informed decision about your smile transformation.
What Is Dental Bonding?
According to the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, bonding is a procedure in which your dentist will place a tooth-coloured filling over damaged teeth to restore their shape and aesthetics. This procedure is called bonding because the filling material bonds directly to your teeth and becomes virtually indistinguishable from the natural tooth structure.
Dental Bonding or Veneers: The Key Differences
Before discussing the difference between composite bonding and veneers, let us understand what veneers are. According to the NHS, veneers are indirect restorations that are bonded onto the teeth. Veneers are ultra-thin shells of composite resins or porcelain that are bonded directly to the front surfaces of prepared teeth. Veneers are called indirect restorations because, unlike bonding, they are fabricated in the laboratory and then attached to the teeth.
Dental Bonding Or Veneers: How Long Do They Last?
The longevity of cosmetic treatments and restorations is a crucial factor that needs to be considered beforehand. Generally, veneers are more durable and stain-resistant than bonding. This is because veneers are prepared in the laboratory under controlled conditions. So, they contain fewer defects and imperfections. But this does not mean that bonding is not a reliable treatment option. Bonded restorations can also serve for many years if they are looked after well.
So, if you seek the best aesthetic outcome and durability, you should consider veneers. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a fairly durable and cost-effective treatment option, bonding is an excellent option.
Do I Need To Get My Teeth Cut For Dental Bonding Or Veneers?
You may need to get your teeth “cut” or “prepared” for both treatment options. However, your cosmetic dentist will only remove the decayed structure before placing a bonded restoration. On the other hand, they will remove a thin layer of the front surface of your teeth when bonding a veneer. They will do this to create space for attaching the veneers to your teeth.
Should I Get Dental Bonding Or Veneers?
The choice between porcelain veneers and bonding depends on various factors, such as your aesthetic requirements, oral health needs, and budget. If you’re looking for a dramatic transformation in your smile, you should consider porcelain veneers. On the other hand, if you are looking for a cost-effective treatment option that offers an excellent aesthetic outcome, you should go with dental bonding.
Is Dental Bonding Or Veneers Safe For Me?
A crucial question dental patients ask before bonding or veneers is whether this treatment is safe. The good news is that both these procedures are safe as long as they are performed by an experienced dentist. Problems typically arise when novice dentists use substandard quality materials for bonding or veneers, leading to premature chip or cracks, or allergic reactions.
Dental Bonding Or Veneers: Which Offers Better Aesthetics?
If aesthetics are your primary concern, then porcelain veneers are clearly the winners here. Why? Because veneers are carefully designed and fabricated in the dental laboratory under controlled conditions. As a result, they have very few structural flaws and offer superior aesthetics and durability.
Can I Get My Bonded Teeth Or Veneers Whitened?
A common question patients often ask their dentist is whether they can get their veneers or bonded teeth whitened with professional teeth whitening. The answer to this question is no, you can’t have bonded fillings or veneers whitened. Professional teeth whitening only works on natural teeth and is not effective on porcelain or composite resins. So, the only option for stained bonded fillings or veneers is to replace them with fresh ones after the natural teeth have been whitened.
Will Bonding Or Veneers Damage My Teeth?
Your dentist may remove a small amount of the natural tooth structure during bonding or veneering. However, this will not damage your teeth or make them sensitive. This is because a very small amount (in the case of bonding) and a thin layer (for veneers) is removed. So, your natural teeth won’t be harmed during these procedures, particularly if they are performed by an experienced dentist.
How To Get Bonding Or Veneers In Didcot?
If you’re interested in getting your damaged teeth restored with cosmetic dentistry in Didcot, your best option is to visit The Oxford Smile Clinics, where we offer high-quality and safe cosmetic dentistry services to our patients. Whether you need professional teeth whitening in a single visit or veneers for your fractured teeth, we provide all services under one roof and comfortable environment. Book a free consultation with us today and let our experienced cosmetic dentists prepare a customised treatment plan for you that restores optimal oral health and gives you a naturally beautiful smile.