WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN VENEERS & BONDING?
Veneers and bonding are different treatments, but they aim to achieve the same outcome: a healthy looking, bright and beautiful smile.
- Bonding is recommended for minor issues and it is much faster and cheaper than veneers.
- Veneers create a more dramatic transformation and they may be your preference if you’re after a completely flawless smile.
DENTAL VENEERS
People can choose to have dental veneers if their existing teeth are chipped, cracked, broken, discoloured and possibly in a bad condition. Veneers are used to give a healthy and a long lasting smile.
There are two types of veneers:
- Porcelain (indirect) veneers, which are created to fit your teeth
- Composite (direct) veneers, in which enamel is bonded to your tooth
BONDING
Dental bonding is a single-session treatment capable of producing incredible results. This procedure is an ideal option for anyone who has minor aesthetic flaws, such as small gaps between the teeth, chips or worn edges. Using a material called dental composite, your dentist can alter the shape of the tooth.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING THE TREATMENT?
Veneers
After a full consultation, teeth will need to be prepared before dental veneers are fitted. This is done by removing some of the outer enamel on the tooth to make sure the veneers can be bonded in place properly so that they last. The dental technician will then make a mold of your teeth which will be used to make the full set of veneers or an individual veneer.
The colour match is then based on your own teeth colour so that the veneers look natural. Once you’ve got your veneers, they’re fitted with dental cement. A light is then shined onto the fitted veneer to speed up the curing process. Finally, any excess cement is trimmed away and the veneers are polished to achieve the agreed shape that you discussed in your consultation.
Bonding
Bonding is a putty-like material, which is designed to match the shade of your natural teeth, can be manipulated and moulded to fill gaps, build up worn surfaces and balance the aesthetic of the smile. Once the composite has been applied, it is set using a curing light. Any final adjustments are made once the composite is firm and then you can see your new smile.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO FIT VENEERS AND BONDING?
Veneers can take from 2-4 weeks dependent upon the condition of your teeth. This can vary on a case by case basis.
Bonding is usually completed in a single session.
AFTERCARE
Although veneers and bonding are strong, they’re delicate too and can be chipped or broken. It’s best to think of veneers as though they are your natural teeth and apply the same amount of after care, as you would your own teeth. This means protecting your veneers from hard foods such as nuts and boiled sweets and brushing regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHOULD I HAVE COMPOSITE OR PORCELAIN DENTAL VENEERS?
Composite veneers are less durable and require more care and maintenance as they chip easily. Porcelain veneers are stronger, more durable and require less maintenance.
ARE VENEERS EXPENSIVE?
Porcelain veneers are generally more expensive, whereas composite veneers are less so. Your choice should be judged in-line with your needs and the long term performance of the veneer.
Is your question not answered above? Please contact us with your question
Brief Overview
- To give a perfect, healthy and long lasting smile
- Dental veneers are used to hide cosmetic flaws
- Cover up cracks and chips, or discoloured teeth
MEET YOUR DENTIST
DR EDWARD YOUNG
Edward qualified from Sheffield University in 2004 and has special interests in conservative aesthetic restorative dentistry and orthodontics. He has completed a 12 month aesthetic restorative course and is a trained Invisalign provider.
Why Choose Zenith?
- Award winning Dental team
- Convenient City Centre location
- Free parking
- Latest dental equipment and techniques
- Registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC)
- Full member of the British College of Aesthetic Medicine (BCAM)
- Range of payment options available