text: If you have imperfections in your teeth that you want resolved, you have many cosmetic procedures available to help you get the results you’re looking for, including cosmetic bonding and porcelain veneers. These two solutions can address essentially the same issues, so how do you know which one is the best option for you? Well, here is some useful information from your dentist in Brady to help you decide between these two great options.
  What are porcelain veneers?
  Porcelain veneers are small, thin shells of ceramic material that are adhered to the front surfaces of your teeth to enhance their appearance. They conceal many kinds of flaws, including the following:
  - Chipped or cracked teeth.
  - Gaps between teeth.
  - Slightly misalignment in teeth.
  - Misshapen teeth.
  - Worn-down teeth.
  - Discolored teeth that don’t respond to professional whitening.
  Because of the material, porcelain veneers are very durable, resist stains better than tooth enamel, and are a great aesthetic option for addressing these flaws.
  What is cosmetic bonding?
  While porcelain veneers are made from ceramic, cosmetic bonding uses composite resin, which is used to fill in cavities instead of dark, silvery amalgam. It is shaded to match the color of natural teeth and can blend in very well. This putty-like material bonds with your natural tooth structure and is sculpted into the desired shape by your dentist. Cosmetic bonding offers a quick solution for many of the same problems that porcelain veneers address.
  Which looks better?
  Maybe you’ve seen some porcelain veneers that looked fake. That is a reflection on the quality of the craftsmanship used to create it. But generally speaking, porcelain veneers are the more visually appealing, natural-looking option compared to cosmetic bonding. If your dentist uses a high-quality lab, your veneer can look just like a real tooth, complete with just a little bit of the character that natural teeth have.
  If you don’t like the appearance of your veneers, voice your concerns and thoughts right away. Your dentist can send them back to the dental lab to be fixed. It is much easier to apply and remove a temporary veneer to ensure that you get the smile you want than it is to drill off a permanent veneer later.
  Cosmetic bonding can certainly be executed well and blend seamlessly with your natural tooth, but it has some downsides, including the ability to stain from foods or drinks. It also doesn’t last as long as porcelain veneers can and, in large quantities, can lose its ability to look realistic.
  How do you know what’s right for you?
  Luckily, you don’t have to make this decision alone. You can talk to your dentist about your treatment options and discuss which one can best meet your specific needs. Turning to a dentist you trust and who uses a skilled, experienced dental lab can help ensure that you get results you’ll love. As a result, many dentists recommend going with porcelain veneers. However, the choice is ultimately yours.
  In the end, you get to make the decision between two great cosmetic dental options that can give you the smile you’ve always wanted. By choosing carefully, you can enjoy your beautiful teeth for many years to come. If you would like more information about these procedures or advice about your specific case, contact your dentist to schedule a consultation today!
  About the Author
  With over 18 years of dental experience, Dr. Greg Ritchie has completed training with the world-renowned Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. At Ritchie Dental Group, he and his staff offer many cosmetic procedures, such as cosmetic bonding and porcelain veneers, and enjoy giving their patients a reason to smile wider. To make an appointment with him, you can call (830) 693-8833 or click here.