Those with discolored teeth often assume that better oral hygiene and a tooth whitening treatment at the dentist is their best option to regain a brighter and whiter smile. These techniques can be highly effective—and we’re advocates for better oral hygiene regardless of your smile situation. But the truth is, tooth whitening is not your only option.

Dental veneers and cosmetic bonding are like the unsung heroes that help restore your smile. They can solve far more than discoloration caused by a lifetime of tooth-staining foods and beverages. Veneers and bonding can also help correct slightly misshapen or crooked teeth. And they can help get rid of those little black triangles that might appear at your gumline. So what’s the best choice? We’re glad you asked!

What are dental veneers?

Let’s start by talking about dental veneers. Also, commonly referred to as tooth veneers or porcelain veneers, these are made of thin porcelain shells permanently adhered to the front of your teeth.

The process of applying them requires precision from a dentist properly trained in cosmetic dentistry. Your dentist will get your teeth ready by removing a small amount of enamel to ensure a snug fit for the veneers. Then, the veneers are bonded to your teeth using a special adhesive.  Once your veneers are on, you can anticipate the following benefits:

• Resistance to stains, keeping your smile brighter for longer.
• A natural look that blends seamlessly with your other teeth.
• The ability to last up to 15 years with proper care.
• A solution for various dental issues, including gaps, uneven teeth, and discoloration.

What is dental bonding?

Dental bonding provides similar results to veneers but is less invasive. Unlike veneers, which are manufactured in a lab and require a custom fit, bonding can be done directly in the Buffalo dental offices in just one visit. The process involves roughening the tooth’s surface, applying the resin, molding it to the desired shape, and then hardening it with a special light. This method is particularly effective for minor cosmetic changes and correcting tooth flaws, making it a quick fix compared to the more extensive preparation and waiting time for veneers. However, while both options aim to enhance your smile, veneers typically offer a more durable and stain-resistant solution than bonding.

Here are the benefits you can anticipate with bonding:

• Preserved tooth structure as it doesn’t require the removal of enamel.
• A cost-effective solution for cosmetic dental issues.
• The ability to complete it in a single visit offers immediate results.
• A reversible procedure (as no enamel is removed), allows for more treatment options in the future.

Choosing the right cosmetic dentistry solution for you.

Determining which approach to take with your smile makeover is a big decision. Should you opt for veneers or bonding? Thankfully, you don’t have to make the decision all alone. We’re happy to discuss your smile goals with you and determine the best step.

Here are some of the questions to consider and ask yourself to help you decide:

• What is my primary concern with my teeth—is it discoloration, chips, gaps, or overall shape?
• How long do I want the results to last? Am I okay with bonding as a more temporary solution, or do I want veneers that will last many years?
• What is my budget for cosmetic dental procedures? Am I prepared for the investment required for veneers, or would I prefer the more cost-effective option of bonding?
• How much time am I willing to commit to the procedure? Do I prefer a one-visit solution, or am I okay with multiple visits required for veneers?
• Am I concerned about preserving as much natural tooth enamel as possible? Would I prefer a less invasive procedure?
• How concerned am I about the strength and stain resistance of the material used in the procedure? Do I frequently consume food and drink that stain teeth?
• How significant is the procedure’s reversibility to me? Do I want the option to switch to another cosmetic dentistry solution, such as prosthodontics, easily in the future?

Ready to get started on your smile makeover?

The best place to start is with a consultation with your dentist at Dental Care Associates of Buffalo. During this conversation, we’ll examine the health of your teeth and gums and seek to understand what you don’t like about your smile. Sometimes, the solution you think is best might not be the right approach at all.

Our team in Buffalo is committed to helping you achieve the smile you want. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Schedule your consultation today so we can help you get started on the path to the smile you’ve always wanted.