Porcelain Veneers vs. Dental Bonding

If you have a chip, a crack, or some sort of damage on your tooth, you know just how much that can change the appearance of your smile. If there is a major chip or crack that causes major discomfort and affects the structure of the tooth, dental crowns are the best option. For minor chips and cracks, however, there are two treatment options in particular that Jackson, Mississippi cosmetic dentist Dr. Danny O’Keefe like to use: dental bonding and porcelain veneers.

Both dental and porcelain veneers are quite effective for aesthetic dental care needs, yet in some cases, one option may be better suited for a patient than the other. Let’s look at dental bonding and porcelain veneers and find out which option would be best for you.

Let’s start with dental bonding. Dental bonding involves the use of a special dental resin that is applied directly to the chip or crack of a tooth. This dental resin is sturdy and, once it dries and is set properly, will be able to endure the usual wear and tear a tooth may experience. The dental resin will be color matched to your tooth to ensure that it blends in seamlessly.

Now let’s look at porcelain veneers. Jackson, Mississippi porcelain veneers are thing ceramic shells that are attached to the front parts of your teeth. The tooth is prepared for the porcelain veneer prior to placement. This involves the removal of some tooth enamel, roughly half a millimeter. The porcelain veneer is partially translucent, so light affect it in much the same way as a normal tooth. Once in place, the porcelain veneer will be virtually invisible.

So which one is better, porcelain veneers or dental bonding? In general, porcelain veneers are better in that they look so natural. In addition to chips and cracks, porcelain veneers can also take care of issues involving major dental stains and minor unevenness. Dental bonding is much cheaper, however, and in the case of minor chips and cracks, dental bonding can be just as effective as porcelain veneers.

For more information about porcelain veneers, dental bonding, and other options for smile enhancement, please contact our Flowood, Mississippi cosmetic dentistry office today.