Major or even minor dental issues can make your smile look less than perfect and have a negative impact on your confidence. Cosmetic dentistry treatments can help those who feel insecure about their smile to achieve a beautiful, flawless smile they’ll want to show off. Although there are numerous cosmetic dentistry treatments available, today we are taking a closer look at porcelain veneers vs. dental bonding in San Diego.

What Are Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain veneers are thin, tooth-shaped shells that cover the front surface of the teeth to hide dental flaws and minor dental damage. They may be used to correct many cosmetic issues, such as tooth shape, size, and color, as well as close gaps between the teeth and treat minor chips. They can also be used to correct mild alignment issues, which is why they are often referred to as “instant orthodontics.”

The Treatment Process for Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneer treatment generally requires two dental appointments to complete the process. During the first appointment, the teeth are prepared by removing a thin layer of the enamel. Next, impressions are taken of the teeth and sent to a dental lab where the veneers will be custom made. Temporary veneers will be placed in the interim.

Once the finished veneers are ready, a second appointment will be necessary to remove the temporary veneers and attach the finished veneers to the teeth with dental cement. A final polish completes the treatment.

What is Dental Bonding in San Diego?

 Like porcelain veneers, dental bonding treatment may be used to correct dental flaws and minor dental damage. Rather than using a tooth-shaped porcelain shell, dental bonding is completed using a soft, putty-like resin. Similar to porcelain veneers treatment, dental bonding may be used to adjust the size, shape, and color of the teeth as well as close gaps and treat chips.

The Treatment Process for Dental Bonding in San Diego

Unlike porcelain veneers treatment, dental bonding may be completed in a single dental visit. During dental bonding treatment, no enamel needs to be removed and instead the teeth are prepared by brushing on a special solution that makes the teeth slightly rough, which helps the bonding resin adhere to the teeth.

Once the teeth are ready, the soft resin is directly applied to the teeth where it is shaped to the desired size and appearance. Once the desired look is achieved, a special light or heat will be applied to the treated teeth to harden the resin, which is then finely shaped and polished to complete treatment.

The Benefits and Disadvantages of Porcelain Veneers and Dental Bonding in San Diego

Porcelain veneers and dental bonding can be used to treat similar issues and provide similar results, but each has its own benefits and disadvantages. Porcelain veneers are more durable than dental bonding treatment, providing longer lasting results. The downside of porcelain veneers is that a layer of enamel must be removed from the teeth, making this treatment irreversible.

Dental bonding treatment can be completed in a single dental visit, unlike porcelain veneers, but may require replacement sooner than veneers.

If you are interested in porcelain veneers or dental bonding in San Diego, but are unsure which treatment is right for you, we encourage you to schedule a consultation today so we can discuss your options and make the best choice for your smile.