Learn More About Dental Bonding Compared to Dental Crowns

Since dental bonding and dental crowns are both tooth-colored restoration options, many patients are unsure about the difference between the two. In reality, dental bonding and crowns are not very similar and have very different types of tooth restoration. Dental bonding and crowns cannot normally be used interchangeably even though the results often look similar. To learn more about the difference between these restoration options, continue reading.

Dental Bonding

We typically use dental bonding for restorations that are cosmetically concerning, rather than for flaws that pose a health risk. Since dental bonding is a composite resin material, it is not normally as strong as the materials in dental crowns. Dental bonding is a great option if one needs to fill in a gap between teeth, repair a superficial crack or remove a tiny cavity.

Dental bonding can also lengthen short teeth or even push out teeth that do not line up properly at the base. If there is any spottiness on teeth, bonding can also cover up minor discolorations.

Since dental bonding is not the strongest restoration, we frequently use dental bonding for repairs on the front teeth or on teeth that are less likely to be necessary for chewing. Bonding can also repair incisors and on the sides of teeth near the gum line.

Although dental bonding is not quite as strong as dental crowns for all purposes, bonding is still adequately durable for areas of less traffic. Dental bonding offers a great, fast, and affordable cosmetic improvement for minor imperfections.

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are the go-to option to repair and protect teeth that have suffered from large cavities, fractures, excessive enamel wear, and dramatic discoloration. Since dental crowns consist of the strongest materials like metal alloys, porcelain fused to metal, and all-porcelain, they are often placed over heavily used teeth like molars.

If a large portion of a tooth needs removal because of a cavity, we will place dental crowns over the entirety of these teeth for protection and to restore function. Dental crowns are often used as a last resort to protect a vulnerable tooth that would otherwise die and fall out. Crowns can be used to anchor tooth replacements like dental bridges and to cover dental implants.

We can create dental crowns to look like a natural tooth with tooth-colored materials. Crowns are more versatile than dental bonding and are encouraged for use on imperfections that are deeper in nature than cosmetic flaws.

Both dental bonding and dental crowns are realistic-looking restoration options for teeth that need improvement. For more information about the big differences between the two, make an appointment with our office by calling (301) 248-8080. We can help you determine which option your teeth need the most for a more attractive appearance and stronger function.