If you have a less-than-perfect smile, you may be considering porcelain veneers or tooth bonding. Both cosmetic dental procedures are similar in that both will improve your smile by masking its imperfections. However, there are differences between the two procedures. Knowing the differences between the two will guide you in choosing the smile improvement procedure that is right for you. Here are four differences between porcelain veneers and tooth bonding.

Creation Process

One of the main differences between porcelain veneers and tooth bonding is the manner in which they are crafted. Porcelain veneers are close to being a permanent process. They fix imperfections in the teeth such as cracks, discoloration, and even tooth alignment. They need to be created in a dental lab. In contrast, tooth bonding is when a dentist takes resin and bonds it to your teeth. Tooth bonding does not need to happen in a dental lab.

Price

What is the price of a perfect smile? If you are self-conscious about your smile, the answer to this question is likely "priceless." Porcelain veneers and tooth bonding differ in pricing. While different dentists will charge different prices, porcelain veneers generally tend to cost a little bit more than tooth bonding. However, porcelain veneers last longer than tooth bonding, so consider the cost an investment (see the Duration section, below).

Procedure Time

Porcelain veneers require that part of your tooth enamel be removed before you get the procedure. Your cosmetic dentist files down some of your normal tooth enamel to make room for the thickness of the porcelain veneers. Because of this, the porcelain veneer process usually takes a little bit longer to perform than tooth bonding. Porcelain veneers usually take about three dentist visits over the course of several weeks. Tooth bonding just requires that your dentist slightly etch your tooth surface. 

Duration

Porcelain veneers last longer than tooth bonding. With proper care and maintenance, porcelain veneers could last you 15 years or longer. In contrast, with proper care and maintenance, dental bonding will last you 2 to 5 years.

If you are considering improving your smile, you should know the difference between porcelain veneers and tooth bonding. The preceding four differences will help guide you choose the smile improvement procedure that is right for you. Your cosmetic dentist will provide you with additional information on how to improve your smile. If you have any further questions, or if you are looking for more personalized advice, speak directly with professionals like MyoTech Dental & Implant Center.