Dr. Blair Bittner compares porcelain veneers and cosmetic bonding for cosmetic dentistry, highlighting that both can address issues like discoloration and chipping. Bonding is quicker and less expensive but less natural-looking and more prone to damage, while veneers are costlier and more invasive but offer durability and a more natural appearance. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on the patient's needs and preferences.

1. Porcelain Veneers vs. Cosmetic
Bonding
By Blair Bittner

2. Introduction
• With more than 20 years of experience
providing cosmetic dentistry treatments in
various practices in Northern California, Blair
Bittner, DDS, has transformed the smiles of
many patients with porcelain veneers and
cosmetic bonding. Dr. Blair Bittner explains the
differences between the two procedures.

3. About Bonding
• Bonding and porcelain veneers can be used to
treat the same types of cosmetic issues,
including discolored, chipped, and misshapen
teeth. With cosmetic bonding, the dentist places
a soft, putty-like substance on the teeth,
hardening and sculpting it until the desired
appearance is achieved. With veneers, the tooth
restorations are made from porcelain in a dental
laboratory and are bonded to the fronts of the
teeth.

4. About Cosmetic Bonding
• Cosmetic bonding is faster and less expensive
than porcelain veneers, and the procedure
usually does not cause discomfort or require
anesthesia. However, bonding looks less natural
than veneers and can chip, discolor, and lose its
shine over time.

5. About Porcelain Veneers
• Porcelain veneers require a bigger investment of
time and money. The teeth first must be prepared
for the procedure, which involves removing a tiny
amount of tooth enamel. This process may cause
temporary tooth sensitivity. Despite being more
expensive and slightly more invasive than bonding,
veneers have several advantages. They are made of
durable, hard porcelain, which means they will not
chip and stain, and they have the translucency and
light-reflecting qualities of real teeth for a more
natural look.