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What’s the Difference Between Veneers and Dental Bonding?

Are you trying to improve your smile? If your teeth aren’t quite as beautiful as you’d like them to be, you have options! Dental bonding and veneers are both great ways to correct misaligned, discolored, or chipped teeth. While the end result of either method results in a stunning smile, there are some key differences between the two techniques. At our Lachine dental clinic, we’re skilled in both methodologies.

Here’s what you should know if you’re trying to choose between dental bonding and veneers:

Materials

Dental bonding is made from a composite substance. It’s the same material used for white fillings. When you come in for your dental bonding appointment, we’ll mix the composite material right here in our Lachine dental clinic. After your teeth have been prepared, Dre Nathalie Kadoch will apply the composite and shape it.

Veneers are made from a thin layer of porcelain that’s bonded to the front of teeth. If you opt for veneers, your dentist will take plaster casts of your mouth and create a mock-up of your new teeth. Your veneers will be created by an outside lab, and we’ll apply them when they’re ready.

Durability

Dental bonding, or cosmetic veneers, usually last around three to five years. The composite material isn’t made to last much longer than this, but this is a great option for patients who are looking to improve their smiles in a single office visit.

Bonding does have a tendency to discolor over time, but it can easily be replaced if you don’t want to opt for veneers.

Porcelain veneers, on the other hand, can last as much as 20 to 25 years, if they’re applied properly and taken care of by the patient.

Veneers don’t discolor as easily (if at all).

Cost

Composite bonding is a more affordable approach than veneers. Bonding can be applied to one tooth or many, depending on your needs. Veneers are typically applied to several teeth to ensure the look is consistent, particularly since this method is meant to last much longer.

Bear in mind, if you’ll be replacing bonding many times over the years, veneers could actually be the more cost-effective route to go in the long run.

Centre Dentaire is the dental clinic Lachine residents know and trust. Learn more about our services by visiting our website, and give us a call if you have any questions!