I fell the other day and ended up with a big chip in my front tooth. It looks terrible and I want to get it fixed as soon as possible. I’m trying to decide between bonding or a veneer? What’s the difference and will I get similar results? — Tanya
Tanya,
Bonding is fairly simple and inexpensive procedure in which your dentist shapes and bonds a tooth colored material to the chipped area. For the most part, it will look like your natural tooth, however, bonding is often a temporary solution and can eventually chip away or show staining. It can be replaced, but each time it’s done, your dentist has to remove a little bit more of your natural tooth structure, leaving the tooth weaker. With that said, some bonding can last for many years with no problems at all.
A veneer is a thin shell usually made out of porcelain that is cemented to the front side of the tooth. It is a more involved process than the bonding because it’s custom made either by the dentist or by an outside dental lab – and that makes it considerably more expensive. If it is made outside the office, your dentist will take an impression and send it out and a temporary is made to repair your tooth until the permanent veneer is ready. It takes several visits, but the end result is a stronger, more natural-looking and permanent solution. Both require artistry and skill on the dentist’s part, so depending on your desired results and your budget, carefully consider your options and be certain you find the right cosmetic dentist who can give you the results you want based on your situation. Good luck!
This blog post is brought to you by Des Moines cosmetic dentist, Dr. Phelan Thomas. For more information on the services he provides, please visit his Des Moines cosmetic dentist website.