Cosmetic dentistry has become
extremely popular in California
to get a winning smile. Whether it’s a misalignment problem, unsightly spacing
issue, dark or uneven colored dentition, or even gum erosion, dentists use new
ways to make sure the treatment is satisfactory and painless for the patient.
In yester years, crowns were the
main choice for hiding tooth problems, but since the past four decades,
cosmetic dentistry has been offering both veneers and bonding to enhance
smiles. However, this does lead to the main question: “Veneers or Bonding?”
Dental bonding
Dental bonding pertains to the
application of a strong composite material right onto the tooth’s surface, by a
dentist, who then sculpts and shapes it to look exactly like a natural
projection. It is made to blend seamlessly and naturally with the existing
teeth of the patient. The teeth are then exposed to a laser light that cures
the composite, reinforcing and hardening it.
This technique of bonding has
several applications, not just for cosmetic uses but also for pediatric and
prosthodontics dentistry. The benefits of dental bonding include,
Quick treatment time as the
procedure can be finished in one visit after consultation.
Low cost per tooth in comparison
to porcelain veneers.
Bonding also has some drawbacks.
For instance, durability of the material might get affected by the oral
environment. Also, since composite bonding is a mix of resin and quartz
particle, breakage and discoloration is inevitable if the mouth has high acidic
pH value. Breakage is also imminent if the patient does not have a solid tooth
structure, or if he/she is a night grinder.
Porcelain veneers
Porcelain veneers need to be
fabricated in the lab. They are filled with tough mineral particles that
enhance durability. In comparison to bonding, the work process of veneers is a
lot more complicated. There is a range of fabrication techniques that can be
used and all require applying different methods to prepare the tooth. Pressing
technique, for instance, produces an extremely strong veneer, but needs 0.8mm
thickness of the veneer. Porcelain powder on the other hand can create super
thin veneers that produce an extremely conservative look on the tooth
structure, while also keeping a very natural profile. The veneer lays on the
surface of the tooth and is very much like a press-on nail.
Veneers adhere to the projection
with the help of bonding cement. Since porcelain is resistant to acid and a lot
stronger than composite, this form of restoration lasts longer. The process of
getting veneers, however, involves more than one appointment. The first visit
involves taking imprints of the teeth. A thin veneer is then crafted out of the
porcelain and is cemented to the surface of the tooth on the next visit. Apart
from straightening the teeth, porcelain veneers also help to close gaps, whiten
teeth, and protect dented tooth surfaces. The main benefit of porcelain veneers
over tooth bonding is that veneers last longer than composite.
Whether a patient decides to
invest in porcelain veneers or dental bonding, it is important to get the
procedure done from a reputable dentist, preferably at a clinic that has
experienced professionals. When such work is left for experienced and skilled
doctors, any last minute alteration can be done without hassle. Remember, the
results of cosmetic procedures are truly diverse depending on the ability of
the ceramist, dentist, the clinical history of the patient and the
communication between the parties involved. Hence, it’s best to perform proper
research. California
boasts of several dental clinics offering cosmetic treatment. The patient can
narrow down to a clinic that best suit his/her needs by reading online reviews
and checking with family and friends.
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