Cosmetic dentistry in Newcastle can help you achieve a brighter, more beautiful smile. Two of the most popular treatments are dental bonding and porcelain veneers.
Each procedure can hide minor imperfections in teeth such as small cracks, chips or discolouration. Treatment can also minimize or close unsightly gaps between teeth. Each works slightly differently, and understanding how can help you.
What Is Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding is a minimally invasive procedure that uses tooth-coloured composite resin that is applied directly to tooth surfaces.
The Treatment Process
Little or no tooth preparation is needed other than lightly etching the tooth surface to enhance the bond between the resin and the tooth. The composite resin is applied directly to tooth surfaces, and is cured or hardened using light, shaped and polished.
Pros
The nice thing about dental bonding in Clarington is that it is quick, non-invasive, and cost-effective. We may be able to complete this treatment during a single visit; typically it takes between 30 to 60 minutes per tooth.
Usually, there is no need for anesthesia, and the results are subtle yet noticeable. Dental bonding can be ideal if you are generally happy with the appearance of your teeth but would prefer to change the look of one or two.
The composite resin used in dental bonding is hard-wearing and durable, and comes in a huge range of shades. Our dentist can select a shade that complements your natural tooth colour and blends in beautifully.
Cons
Composite resin can become stained after a few years, especially if you smoke, like tea, coffee, or red wine, or consume a lot of highly coloured foods and drinks. You will need to consider replacing dental bonding regularly, although treatment is generally reversible when no tooth modifications are needed.
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are custom-made, very thin shells of ceramic that cover the front surface of the tooth, as well as its biting edge. They may also wrap around the sides of the tooth and are typically 0.5 mm in thickness.
The Treatment Process
These veneers normally require some minor tooth modifications. It’s generally necessary to remove a small amount of tooth enamel to accommodate the veneer comfortably. These modifications are performed using dental anesthesia to ensure your comfort, but treatment is irreversible.
Once teeth are prepared, we take a detailed digital dental impression that is used to custom-make your veneers to our prescription. While they are being made, you may need temporary veneers to protect your teeth.
When they are ready, we can try them in your mouth, check they fit precisely and bond them permanently onto your teeth.
Pros
Unlike dental bonding, porcelain will not stain, and modern porcelains can provide excellent aesthetics. They closely mimic the appearance of real teeth, reflecting light in a way that is incredibly natural and beautiful.
It’s worth considering porcelain veneers if you are looking for a more permanent solution and wish to change the shape or appearance of several teeth. If you wish, you can have porcelain veneers to cover all teeth visible in your smile line to create a more perfect cosmetic appearance.
Cons
Porcelain veneers in Courtice are more expensive than dental bonding, but they should last considerably longer. You can expect your veneers to last 10 years or more with proper aftercare.
Discovering Which Might Suit You Best
If you are interested in learning more about cosmetic dentistry solutions at West Bowmanville Family Dental, contact us to book a consultation. A quick dental exam will determine if you are suitable for these treatments and the predicted costs.