If a chipped edge, a small gap or uneven front teeth bother you, the two options people ask about most are composite bonding and porcelain veneers. They suit different situations, and the choice is about more than price.

Composite bonding

Tooth-coloured resin is shaped onto the tooth by hand and set with a light. It usually needs little or no drilling, is often done in one visit, and can be repaired or removed later.

• Keeps most of your natural tooth
• Can chip or stain, and usually needs polishing or repair every few years
• Lower cost per tooth than porcelain

Porcelain veneers

A thin porcelain facing is made in a laboratory and bonded to the front of the tooth. Some tooth surface is removed first, so veneers are not reversible.

• Resist staining and tend to last longer than bonding
• Need two or more visits, with a trial smile first
• Higher cost, and a permanent change to the tooth

Questions worth asking

• Would aligners or whitening first mean less change to my teeth?
• Can I see a mock-up before anything is done?
• What will upkeep cost over ten years, not just today?

Every mouth is different, so results vary. A consultation is where we look at your teeth, explain what is realistic, and give you a written plan and price before you decide.