Do I Need Cosmetic Bonding or Porcelain Veneers near Lakewood?

With today’s modern dentistry, there is no reasons to live with a smile that you’re not 100% proud of. Whether you suffer from chipped, cracked or stained teeth, there are various cosmetic procedures that can restore your smile. But which should you choose? Your decision doesn’t have to be difficult. In this post, your dentist explains how you can benefit from cosmetic bonding or porcelain veneers near Lakewood.

What is Cosmetic Bonding?

Cosmetic or dental bonding is the use of a composite resin to repair a tooth with minor flaws. The procedure is extremely quick and usually completed in a single visit. Your cosmetic dentist near Lakewood simply applies the resin to your tooth, smoothing and polishing the material before it hardens. The resin is precisely matched to the color and sheen of your natural teeth. Cosmetic bonding can last for an average of 4 to 8 years.

What are Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain veneers are custom, wafer-thin shells that are attached to the front of your teeth with a special cement. They are trimmed and colored to blend in with your natural teeth. Porcelain veneers are stain-resistant and generally react well with your gum tissue. If cared for properly, they can last from 7 to 15 years before needing to be replaced.

Which is Better for Me?

Cosmetic bonding and porcelain veneers generally address the same issues, but each option is better suited for specific cases.

Cosmetic bonding is best suited for cracked or chipped teeth. It can be also used to treat discoloration or lengthen a tooth. This procedure is cheaper and simpler than porcelain veneers, often completed in a single visit and costing generally $300 to $600 per tooth. Many dental insurance plans cover most of the cost of bonding, especially when it is done for structural reasons.

Porcelain veneers can address more complex cosmetic issues, including unevenly space or crooked teeth.  They also look more natural and are more stain resistant than cosmetic bonding. Porcelain veneers generally cost $500 to $1,900 per tooth. Dental insurance providers usually don’t provide benefits for procedures that are strictly cosmetic and porcelain veneers often fall under this label. While porcelain veneers are a permanent procedure, they offer a lifelong restoration of your smile.

There are a variety of options to achieve your dream smile. Talk to your cosmetic dentist today to determine which procedure you’ll benefit from most.

About the Author

Dr. Sol Brotman has almost 40 years of experience in the dental field. He has been recognized with numerous honors, including the Florida Dental Association Community Service Award. If you have further questions about your cosmetic dental options, he can be reached through his website or at 904-396-4091.