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Bonding and Veneers
Bonding and Veneers are two techniques used to improve the shape, color, and spacing of your teeth. Each patient has a unique set of circumstances necessitating the use of multiple techniques to achieve the desired result. There are advantages and disadvantages to both procedures and we can help you decide which will be most beneficial for your smile.
Bonding
Bonding is a conservative way to provide limited cosmetic therapy to your smile. This technique is used for slightly discolored, chipped, fractured, or crooked teeth, providing an option that does not require the removal of healthy tooth structure. Bonding uses the white filling material to adhere or "bond" to the tooth in a variety of tooth-colors, blending with the natural color of the remaining teeth. By its nature, bonding can only add size or bulk to the tooth, which in many cases is the desired result. Bonding also is not nearly as stain or fracture resistant as porcelain crowns or veneers. If some chipping does occur, it can usually be patched or repaired very easily. Bonding is done directly in the mouth and can normally be accomplished in one appointment. This method is typically less expensive than other cosmetic treatments.
Veneers
Porcelain veneers are an excellent way to correct the shape, color, and spacing of your teeth. Veneers can be an alternative to adult braces by making minor adjustments to misshapen teeth while maintaining a natural tooth appearance. Veneers are a porcelain laminate providing many of the same benefits of bonding with the added benefit of stain-resistant porcelain. Veneers can be placed directly on existing teeth but often yeild the best cosmetic results when a conservative amount of tooth strucutre is removed first. This makes it easier to hide margins and maintain normal tooth proportions. Ask your dentist how veneers can improve your smile.