Veneers vs. Dental Bonding

How long do dental veneers last? When considering veneers, remember that it is a permanent procedure. This means it’s not a decision to take lightly, as a layer of tooth enamel is removed, making it difficult to reverse. Your lifestyle, diet, and habits may require you to replace the veneers every ten to fifteen years. If you later decide veneers are not for you, significant and potentially costly restorations may be needed.

Dentistry offers a wide range of smile makeover options that not only enhance your appearance but also promote a healthier mouth—and, by extension, a healthier you. A beautiful smile can boost your confidence and provide social and emotional benefits.

Our experienced cosmetic dentists are here to help you explore your options without judgment. While regular brushing and flossing are essential, other factors can affect the appearance of your smile, some of which may be beyond your control. Dr. Brad Alderman and Dr. Joyce want you to know that your smile does not have to define you.

Who makes you a good candidate for veneers? While money will undoubtedly make anyone a good candidate for any procedure, other more critical factors will determine a person’s eligibility for veneers. What does this mean? First, you will need a consultation, to make sure all criteria are met such as healthy gums and teeth. A dentist will also likely look back at your history in search of other relevant information. For example, do you grind your teeth? If you do grind your teeth, porcelain veneers may not be for you. The force of grinding can severely damage veneers.

Does dental insurance cover dental veneers? Unfortunately, dental insurance does not cover the cost of dental veneers.

Bonding is often less expensive than porcelain veneers if the work required is minimal to moderate. However, in the event, you opt for a complete smile makeover, it would not be a great option.

Do veneers cover the whole tooth? Both veneers and crowns are effective in improving the aesthetic appearance of teeth. Generally, a veneer is made of wafer-thin porcelain, which is bonded directly to the front of a tooth. Color-matched porcelain is used, thus matching your natural teeth and giving you an outstanding smile.

Can you put veneers over bonding? Yes, you can put a porcelain veneer over a tooth that originally had composite bonding. A veneer is bonded to the teeth with a type of composite cement making it possible for this to be done.

If you want to restore your smile, be sure to do your research. Learn as much as possible about dental veneers and bonding solutions. In the end, it will be a discussion between you and your cosmetic dentist that will be most important. Aside from answering questions about dental veneers and bonding solutions, your “dentist near me” can also tell you if your teeth are good candidates. While neither of these procedures may be for everyone, one of them may be perfect for you. You really can have the smile of your dreams!