I’ve had composite on four front teeth for almost 20 years. It got old and discolored, and now my new dentist recommends veneers because they are easier for him. I’m not sure if I want to get veneers based on what is easiest for my dentist. I know that porcelain veneers might require some shaving of my teeth. But if the dentist removes my bonding, will it damage my tooth enamel? – Thank you. Mark from Maryland
Mark,
Thank you for your question.
Can You Remove Dental Bonding?
A skilled cosmetic dentist can remove dental bonding without damaging tooth enamel.
- Flexible sandpaper discs will accommodate tooth shape, remove bonding, and polish your teeth.
- Carbide polishing drills remove bonding without harming the material. But your dentist will need to use a sandpaper disc to remove any streaks left behind.
- Air-abrasion equipment can gently remove bonding
Replacing Dental Bonding with Veneers
A dentist can replace your dental bonding with veneers. But it is your choice. If you do not need porcelain veneers for the imperfections in your teeth—or if you do not want them—your dentist should not try to convince you to get them.
Porcelain veneers
Porcelain veneers often require moving a small amount of tooth enamel to prepare your teeth for them. But if your bonding is old, removing and replacing it is more conservative than getting porcelain veneers.
Dental bonding
Cosmetic dentists apply dental bonding by hand while you sit in the dental chair. Blending and applying bonding bonding requires advanced training and skill.
If your dentist does not have advanced cosmetic dentistry training or is uncomfortable with dental bonding, we recommend getting a second opinion. A skilled cosmetic dentist will examine your teeth, discuss your options, and explain the results you can expect with dental bonding vs. porcelain veneers.
The Salem, Massachusetts cosmetic dentists at Burba Dental Partners, sponsored this post. Read about how they strive to offer some of the best dental care in the Boston area.