The bonding was wearing on my four front chipped teeth. I got the bonding in 2008, and it needed refreshing. I asked my dentist for veneers, but she said bonding is less expensive, veneers would require tooth preparation, and she could give me a perfect match with the bonding. So, I agreed. My dentist completed the bonding, but it is not a perfect match, and now I have a gap between my front teeth that was not there before. When I returned three weeks later, my dentist replaced the bonding, but it still looked bad. She asked me to return to the office, but I haven’t done so. Should I switch to another dentist for veneers or get the bonding replaced? Thank you. Kiana from Arlington, VA
Kiana,
Thank you for your question. It seems that your dentist is unskilled with dental bonding. Still, bonding composite directly onto your teeth requires a dentist to have advanced training, an artistic eye, and skilled hands. If you want great results, find an advanced cosmetic dentist.
But should you ask for dental bonding replacement or porcelain veneers?
Dental Bonding or Porcelain Veneers for Chipped Teeth?
Dental bonding and veneers can restore chipped teeth. They differ in the materials used, application, and longevity.
Dental bonding
- Material – A cosmetic dentist will blend compositive resin to match your tooth shade and translucence.
- Application – The dentist applies, shapes, and hardens the bonding on your teeth while you sit in the dental care.
- Longevity – Bonding can last five years or longer if you take good care of it. Still, it attracts stains over time. A cosmetic dentist can polish the bonding to help you maintain it.
Porcelain veneers
- Material – Porcelain is harder than tooth enamel. Its properties allow a dental ceramist to layer it and mimic natural teeth.
- Application – A cosmetic dentist will conservatively prepare your teeth and bond veneers to their fronts.
- Longevity – Well-maintained, quality veneers can last eight to twenty years—sometimes longer.
Should You Switch Dentists?
Before switching dentists, we recommend getting a second opinion from an advanced cosmetic dentist. The dentist will examine your teeth and bonding and recommend treatment. Ultimately, whether you prefer bonding or veneers is your choice. Choose a dentist who is skilled in both methods and thoroughly explains the pros and cons of each treatment. During your consultation, ask for pictures of dentist patients who have received porcelain veneers or bonding for chipped teeth.
Barrington, Illinois, accredited cosmetic dentist Dr. James Gavrilos, sponsors this post.