Veneers and Bonding
If you’re looking to enhance the appearance of your teeth with natural-looking, long-lasting results, veneers and bonding may be great options to consider. These cosmetic treatments can improve the shape, color, and overall balance of your smile.
In simple terms, veneers cover the entire front surface of a tooth, while bonding is applied to a smaller area to correct specific imperfections. At Coastalview Dental, our team provides these treatments with precision and artistry, creating results that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
What Is Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding is a straightforward and comfortable procedure. Using a tooth-colored composite resin, your dentist can:
Repair small chips or cracks
Close minor gaps between teeth
Reshape worn or uneven edges
Cover deep or internal stains that whitening can’t fully remove
The resin is applied, shaped, and hardened with a curing light, then polished to match your natural enamel for a smooth, lifelike finish.
What Are Veneers?
Veneers are thin, custom-made shells placed on the front surfaces of teeth to enhance their appearance. They’re designed to brighten, balance, and refine your smile while maintaining a natural look and feel. Veneers may be recommended for:
Stained or discolored teeth resistant to whitening
Chipped, worn, or uneven teeth
Minor alignment or spacing concerns
Composite Resin Veneers
Composite veneers can often be completed in a single visit. They require little to no enamel removal, are cost-effective and repairable, and offer beautiful, natural results—though they may be slightly less durable than porcelain.
Procedure:
Your dentist will apply a mild etching solution to the enamel, then layer and shape the composite resin directly onto the tooth. Once hardened with a curing light, the veneer is polished for a smooth, natural finish.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are highly durable, stain-resistant, and known for their ability to mimic the natural translucency of enamel. With proper care, they can last for many years. This treatment usually requires two appointments.
Procedure:
A thin layer of enamel is gently removed to make room for the veneer. An impression is taken and sent to a dental lab for fabrication. Temporary veneers may be placed while your custom ones are being made. At your next visit, the porcelain veneers are securely bonded using a strong dental adhesive.
Which Option Is Right for Me?
Your Coastalview Dental dentist will take the time to review your oral health, discuss your goals, and help you choose the cosmetic option that best fits your needs. Both veneers and bonding can provide long-lasting, aesthetic improvements when paired with good oral hygiene and regular dental visits.
If you’d like to learn more about which treatment might be right for you, contact Coastalview Dental in Encinitas to schedule an appointment. Our friendly team is happy to answer your questions and guide you through every step of your smile transformation.