Dental veneers and bonding are both part of cosmetic dentistry, and both are methods that are designed to deliver aesthetic improvement to the teeth, making them straighter and whiter.
Terminology
Typically, the word "veneer" refers to a porcelain veneer, which is a laminate covering that is placed over the front surface of the tooth for aesthetic improvement. A porcelain veneer isn't the only type of veneer. Bonding refers to the composite resin that dentists use for composite veneers, which are also placed on the tooth's front surface.
Uses
Veneers are used to align the surfaces, shapes, evenness and straightness of the teeth, and also used to whiten teeth that are highly discolored. Bonding is commonly used to fill in gapped teeth, and fix chipped or cracked teeth.
Material
The porcelain used for porcelain veneers is extremely durable, and, once bonded to the teeth, will last for 5 to 10 years, according to MedicineNet.com. Bonding material is made of composite resin, which is not as strong, and can more easily chip or break.
Translucency
Porcelain veneers have a level of translucency that makes them look more natural. Bonding material is more opaque, and, while the teeth can appear white, an up-close look can reveal that unnatural material has been placed in the mouth.
Application
Bonding can be completed in one appointment, during which the dentist molds, adjusts, attaches, seals and trims the composite addition. Porcelain laminates, however, take two to three visits, since a series of impressions must be taken and sent to a laboratory where the porcelain pieces are created and shaped according to specifications.
Repair and Maintenance
According to Animated-Teeth.com, bonding ruptures can be repaired much more easily than breaks in porcelain veneers, which will require full replacements. Also, veneers are stain resistant and can withstand more activity in the mouth, while composite resin is not stain resistant, and requires that the patient be cautious and constantly aware of its presence.
Tags: composite resin, aesthetic improvement, Bonding material, front surface, more easily, porcelain veneer, stain resistant