Dental Bonding
The process of bonding is like the veneer process in many ways. But differences exist. This week, we would like to focus on some of the differences, since bonding as well as veneers help patients achieve a great smile.
About Bonding
An alternative to veneers, bonding is a restorative procedure for teeth that are chipped, cracked, discolored, or misarranged. To bond a tooth, the dentist prepares the tooth by lightly etching the surface and applying a bonding liquid. Once the liquid sets, the dentist applies and sculpts plastic resin. Once the resin sets, the dentist affixes it to the tooth and trims, smooths, and polishes it to achieve a natural appearance. Although less expensive than veneers, bonding stains easily with coffee, tea, wine and smoking – particularly in the days immediately following the procedure.
Considering Bonding?
One of the benefits of bonding is that it can often be completed during a single office visit. he What’s more, it can significantly improve a tooth’s appearance. However, since the plastic resin the dentist uses is not as strong as natural tooth enamel, it is more likely than natural teeth to stain, chip, or break. Bonding typically lasts three to five years before requiring repair or replacement.
Difference Between Bonding & Veneers
Dental bonding and porcelain veneers achieve similar results. So, what’s the difference?
- Much like a cabinet door; a veneer is front-facing, covering the entire front surface of the tooth.
- Some people avoid veneers because they don’t want the dentist to cut back their actual teeth. The reason such a process is necessary for veneers is because Dr. Wong must trim a little from the front surface of the tooth to change its color and shape. But the appearance of the shape and color can also be achieved using bonding material.
- The appearance of a single or multiple teeth can be altered with bonding or veneers.
- Cosmetic bonding, while achieving a result like veneers, is a different process. For bonding, Dr. Wong prepares the tooth/teeth by roughening the visible surface, and then will build up a new surface using composite, which is the same material used for white fillings.
- As with veneers, Dr. Wong can bond a single tooth or multiple teeth.
- Bonding can discolor over time.
- Bonding material is more delicate than porcelain.
- The life of a cosmetic bond is shorter than that of a veneer.
- Bonding is less expensive than veneers.
About Dr. Fred Wong of Blue Ocean Dentistry in Glendora, California
Dr. Fred Wong and the staff at Blue Ocean Dentistry use the latest available dental treatments, equipment, and materials – all of which make a marked difference in our patients’ experiences. We are committed to helping our patients achieve optimal dental health. We creatively combine dental science and artistry — which can literally redesign your smile. Since even a subtle change in your smile will help you to project self-confidence and high self-esteem, we love helping you feel good about yourself. We deliver the finest dental care at the most reasonable cost and accept most dental insurance plans as well as CareCredit. For more about the dental treatment plans we offer or to schedule an appointment, call today (626) 852-6999.