Free Dental Directory of Diseases, Aliments and Solutions

Choices of treatment for short or worn teeth are:

• Porcelain Veneers

• Bonding

• Crowns

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Porcelain Veneers:

Porcelain veneers are a natural-looking solution to a broad range of cosmetic problems.  Porcelain veneers are thin shells of porcelain (approximately the thickness of fake fingernails) that are typically bonded to the front and tops of the teeth.  Being thin, light can shine through and they take on the natural color of the underlying tooth structure.  Only a minimal amount of tooth structure is required to be removed to accommodate porcelain veneers..

            Advantages:

They are beautiful, strong (once bonded in place) and durable.  Minimal tooth reduction is required to accommodate their installation, and they can often be repaired while still on the tooth with bonding techniques.

            Disadvantages:

Their placement requires some tooth reduction, and the procedure is non-reversible, making you dependent on veneers or replacement veneers for the rest of your life.  Your Dentist must have the technique, experience, and artistic talent to place veneers.  The procedure is normally a two-appointment process.

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Bonding:

Bonding is typically a three-step procedure.   First, the fronts of the teeth are treated with a mild acid.  Next, the plastic bonding material, which has a consistency of bread dough, is placed and sculpted to the desired shape.  Finally, the material is hardened with a high-intensity light.

            Advantages:

Bonding produces strong, natural-looking restorations, accommodates in-the-mouth repairs, and is a one-appointment procedure.

            Disadvantages:

Some tooth reduction is required, and the procedure is generally considered a non-reversible process that makes you dependent on bonding for rest of your life.  Your dentist must have the proper technique, experience, and artistic talent to perform bonding.  Few dentists have adequate training in bonding.

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Crowns:

Crowns are constructed through the use of porcelain, porcelain and metal, or entirely out of metal.  They are best used in cases where teeth are broken down and need structural support and protection.  They might also be appropriate if gaps are extremely wide.  If your teeth are intact, in good shape, and you merely want to close spaces, your recommended choices are: 

• bonding

• veneers

• orthodontics

            Advantages:

Crowns can repair structural damage, are very strong, and can be constructed from several different materials.

            Disadvantages:

Crowns require a relatively large amount of tooth reduction, are less natural-looking as compared to veneers or bonding, and may show a dark blue line where they meet the gums, should your gums happen to recede.  Porcelain crowns are capable of wearing down opposing teeth.

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