Do you find yourself sometimes placing your hand over your mouth when you smile or laugh? This indicates that you may be self-conscious about a problem with your teeth. They are perhaps worn out, chipped, discolored or having minor gaps between them. Good news: You can restore your self-confidence and that beautiful smile. How do you decide what will work for you? While veneers and bonding have the same goal of giving you that perfect smile; they follow different routes to that destination. 

Dental Veneers

A veneer is a thin sheet of material made of porcelain that is a substitute for the enamel and is bonded to the natural teeth, giving them a pleasing white appearance.  Porcelain veneers work to disguise your crooked teeth, and they are custom made to fit the shape and size of your teeth. You can place them on one or more teeth to restore the shape color and size of your teeth.

The Benefits of Dental Veneers:

• Not much preparation is needed. A single or two visits to your dentist will do.
• Veneers do not stain.
• They camouflage so well that you cannot tell them apart from your natural teeth.
• They deal with many cosmetic dental issues in one fell swoop.

When are Veneers Right for You?

As you grow older, you may have stained teeth and discover that bleaching doesn't work for you. You could consider porcelain veneers, since they will cover the stains and bring back the whiteness. It will also cover cracks, chips, and gaps. However, avoid exercising this option if your teeth are decaying. Veneers require your teeth to be healthy.

Bonding

Bonding is where a composite resin that matches your teeth color is applied freehand to fill gaps, and repair chipped teeth. Bonding will work for you if the alteration you require involves very little tooth structure. Unlike veneers, it is a cheaper alternative and there is very little removal of enamel. With bonding, you can treat more than one tooth in a single session. The main disadvantage for you, should you opt for it is that daily habits such as drinking tea, wine, and coffee can stain the bonding material. In making a choice between bonding and veneer, you will need to clearly communicate your needs to your dentist. On their part, your dentist will examine your teeth and, after thoroughly assessing your needs, recommend what option is best for you.