New advancements in dental technology make getting a Hollywood smile easier than ever. From minor enhancements like teeth whitening to complete smile makeovers, as a cosmetic dentist, Dr. Rod Gleave can do it all. If you have intrinsic stains that whitening products haven’t eliminated, chipped teeth, or widely spaced teeth, porcelain veneers or dental bonding can dramatically improve your smile.
Bonding and veneers address many of the same cosmetic issues, but they have differences. These include how long they last, the length of the procedure, and price. If you are ready to begin your smile transformation, Dr. Rod Gleave, a Salt Lake City dentist, will help you understand which dental services are best for you. Continue reading to learn more about these cosmetic dentistry treatments to learn how they can improve your smile.
What is dental bonding?
Dental bonding is the application of a tooth-colored resin on the front surface of a tooth. When used to cover the entire front surface of teeth, bonding is sometimes called composite veneers. Dr. Gleave will match this resin to your exact tooth color, so the enhancements will blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
To apply composite resin to your teeth, the dentist will slightly etch the surface of your teeth and paint on a liquid adhesive to create a strong bond between the tooth and resin. Next, composite resin will be applied and molded. Lastly, he dries the bonding material with a special blue light. This solution typically lasts between 10 and 15 years.
Advantages Over Veneers
For minor issues, many patients choose dental bonding. Placement of this tooth-colored resin corrects small chips and cracks, misshapen teeth, tiny gaps, and exposed tooth roots. Bonding tends to be cheaper than veneers, and the placement procedure is quicker.
In addition, tooth bonding is a conservative procedure that allows a dentist to reshape your tooth without removing any enamel.
What are porcelain veneers?
Veneers are often thought of as a facelift for teeth. You can receive a single veneer or a set of 6-8 veneers that cover your entire smile.
The process of applying veneers takes longer than dental bonding (up to 3 appointments) because they are custom made to match your teeth. Before your veneers are applied, your dentist will have to prep your teeth. This two to three-week process goes as follows:
- A tiny amount of enamel will be removed to offset the veneer’s thickness.
- Your dentist will then take an impression of your teeth and send it to a dental lab so that your custom veneers can be created.
- If needed, you can have temporary veneers placed.
- At your next appointment, your tooth will be cleaned, polished, and etched.
- The dentist will then apply cement to the veneer and place it on your tooth.
- The adhesive will be hardened with a special light.
- Lastly, excess cement will be removed, and final adjustments will be made.
Advantages Over Bonding
Veneers benefit those with harsh stains, wear, and other small cosmetic issues. Unhealthy gums or teeth will need treatment before you can receive your veneers.
Appropriate candidates for veneers need a solution for the following problems:
- Deep stains and discoloration
- Uneven teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Mildly crooked teeth
- Overlapping teeth
- Worn teeth
Porcelain veneers are considered a long-term solution and will last at least 15 years.
Contact Your Salt Lake City Dentist Today
If you’ve looked at dentists in Salt Lake City, and you aren’t sure which one to choose, come in and talk with Dr. Gleave. During your consultation, he will assess your gums and teeth and discuss your dental goals. This information will help him recommend whether applying dental bonding or porcelain veneers is the best solution for your smile.
Call us today at 801-262-0744 to schedule an appointment.
