A beautiful smile can change your life. It can boost your confidence, leave a lasting impression on new acquaintances, and help you explore new opportunities. But if your smile is damaged, discolored, or dull, then your smile may not be elevating you to new heights. Luckily, there are plenty of cosmetic dentistry treatments that can take your smile to the next level. With treatments like dental bonding and dental veneers, you can finally get the smile of your dreams without sacrificing your oral health.
Getting your dream smile is as simple as contacting the team at Lakewood Dental Group in Dallas, TX. Our team of skilled dental professionals can help you create your ideal aesthetic with cutting-edge technology and advanced treatments. Explore your options with Drs. Mihir Patel and Shaun Sigurdson by calling (214) 827-1885 today!
When it comes to improving the appearance of your teeth, there are three popular cosmetic dental treatments available: dental bonding and dental veneers. In this blog, we explore the details of each treatment, discuss their benefits, guide you in choosing the right option for your needs, and provide information on cost and longevity.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a non-invasive aesthetic procedure that involves the application of a tooth-colored substance (called composite resin) directly to the teeth by a dentist. Typically, dentists use dental bonding to repair minor cracks and chips, as well as cover stubborn dental stains. The procedure is relatively quick and painless, often requiring only one visit to the dentist.
The Process
During the bonding process, a dentist prepares the tooth’s surface by roughening it. To roughen the surface of a tooth, a dentist must remove a very minimal amount of tooth enamel. Next, the dentist applies a conditioning liquid. Then, the dentist takes the putty-like composite resin and shapes, molds, and smoothes it onto the affected tooth. Once the dentist skillfully applies the resin, then they use a special light to harden the resin. After the resin completely hardens, the dentist can then polish the resin to blend seamlessly with the surrounding natural teeth.
Cost
Compared to most other cosmetic dentistry treatments, dental bonding is an affordable option that harbors very few risks to patients. Typically, the cost of tooth bonding ranges from $100 to $400 per tooth.
Lifespan
With proper care, dental bonding can last up to 5-10 years. However, this largely depends on the patient’s oral hygiene habits. So, be sure to rinse with mouthwash regularly, floss every day, brush twice daily, and eat a balanced diet with plenty of water, fiber, and lean proteins.
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are like a magic cloak for your smile. They are extremely thin, custom-made prosthetics that look like tooth-shaped shells. Dental professionals can expertly craft these thin shells from durable, long-lasting materials, like porcelain or composite resin. Once a dentist creates the perfect set of veneers for their patient, then the dentist can bond them to the front surface of the patient’s teeth.
Veneers are versatile and can address a variety of cosmetic concerns, including:
- Stained teeth
- Misaligned teeth
- Worn teeth
- Unevenly spaced teeth
The Process
The process of getting dental veneers usually requires two or three dental visits. During the first visit, the dentist prepares the patient’s teeth by eliminating a small amount of enamel. The dentist accomplishes this by using a small grinding tool. It is essential to remove a thin layer of enamel to make room for the veneers. However, unfortunately, this layer of enamel will never grow back, making veneers a life-long commitment.
After the dentist removes a thin layer of enamel, then they take impressions of the teeth to craft custom-fitted veneers that look and feel like natural teeth. The dentist may provide the patient with temporary veneers, as the final product can take a week or longer to fabricate. In the final visit, the dentist bonds the veneers to the teeth using a super strong adhesive.
Cost
Dental veneers are more expensive than dental bonding. This is largely due to the different materials used, as well as the customization and application process. The cost can range from $800 to $2,500 per tooth, depending on factors, such as:
- The type of veneers used
- The dentist’s location
- The dentist’s level of expertise
Lifespan
While veneers are meant to last for 10 years or longer, they are not immune to damage. To keep your investment and smile safe, our Dallas dentists recommend:
- Conducting thorough oral hygiene every day
- Avoiding overly hard or sticky foods
- Quitting harmful habits, like nail biting or smoking
Choosing the Right Treatment for You
Determining the most suitable treatment for your needs depends on various factors, such as:
- The specific dental issue
- The desired results
- The patient’s budget
- The patient’s oral health condition
Consulting with a dentist is crucial to evaluate your options and receive professional guidance. They can conduct a thorough examination and discuss the pros and cons of each treatment, taking into account your unique circumstances.
Dental Bonding and Dental Veneers in Dallas, TX
Dental bonding and dental veneers are effective cosmetic treatments that can transform your smile. By understanding the details, costs, and longevity of each treatment, you can make an informed decision to enhance your smile and boost your confidence. Schedule a consultation at Lakewood Dental Group online here, or call our dentists in Dallas, TX, at (214) 827-1885 to learn more.
