Bonding or Veneers: Which Is Best?

First impressions can make all the difference, and having a set of pearly whites you’re proud to show off can be a game changer. 

No one understands that better than our OK Tooth team in Midtown Manhattan, New York, so we offer a comprehensive lineup of cosmetic dentistry treatments that transform so-so smiles into dazzlers. 

Two of our most popular procedures to address tooth imperfections are dental bonding and veneers. Both offer amazing benefits, but how do you know which to choose? 

You’re not the only one confused about how these two treatments differ, so we’ve compiled a guide to compare bonding and veneers, exploring each procedure’s pros and cons.

What is dental bonding?

Dental bonding is a cosmetic treatment in which we apply a tooth-colored resin to your teeth and harden it with a special light — the light bonds the material to your tooth, correcting cracks, chips, and other dental flaws.

Pros of dental bonding

• Cost-effective: It’s generally less expensive than veneers
• Quick: We can complete the process in a single visit
• Minimally invasive: We remove little to no tooth enamel during the procedure

Cons of dental bonding

• Durability: While sturdy, bonding material is more prone to chipping or staining
• Aesthetics: Results may not look as natural or as bright as veneers

Bonding is a quick and easy way to improve your smile without breaking the bank.

What are veneers?

Veneers are thin shells, typically made of porcelain or composite resin, that we custom-design to fit over the fronts of your teeth. They give you a natural, attractive look and can fix various dental issues.

Pros of veneers

• Aesthetics: They’re designed to blend in perfectly with your surrounding teeth
• Durability: They’re durable and stain-resistant 
• Versatility: Veneers can correct a wider range of cosmetic problems, including severe discoloration, misshapen teeth, and tooth gaps

Cons of veneers

• Cost: They’re more expensive than dental bonding
• Invasive: The procedure requires some enamel removal, which is irreversible
• Time-consuming: Veneers usually require at least two office visits

Veneers are great if you want a long-lasting solution to unsightly smile flaws.

Bonding or veneers: Which is best for you?

Don't worry if you’re still having trouble deciding between bonding and veneers; you can’t go wrong. It largely depends on your needs, preferences, and budget, and we can help you make the decision that fits you best.

Here’s the bottom line on bonding and veneers: Bonding is your best bet for a quick, cost-effective solution to minor cosmetic issues. Veneers are worth the investment if you're looking to correct more significant cosmetic problems and want a solution that offers superior aesthetics and durability.

Both procedures are safe when performed by our experienced OK Tooth dentists, including our cosmetic dentistry specialist, Charles M. Marks, DDS. As with any dental procedure, there may be a risk of temporary sensitivity, but serious complications are rare.

If you have further questions about dental bonding, veneers, or any other dental issues, call OK Tooth or request an appointment online.