Both composite bonding and porcelain veneers can transform chipped, worn, uneven, or discoloured teeth. Understanding the differences will help you make an informed choice for your smile goals and budget.
1. Composite Edge Bonding
- **Procedure**: Direct sculpting of tooth-coloured composite resin onto natural teeth in a single visit.
- **Drilling**: None! Natural tooth enamel remains 100% intact.
- **Time**: 1 appointment (60–90 minutes).
- **Cost**: From €150 per tooth.
- **Lifespan**: 5 to 7 years with regular polishing.
2. Porcelain Veneers
- **Procedure**: Custom ultra-thin ceramic shells created by a master dental laboratory.
- **Aesthetics**: Glass-like translucency, ultra-resistant to tea, coffee, and tobacco stains.
- **Time**: 2 appointments over 2–3 weeks.
- **Cost**: €850 per tooth (qualifies for 20% Med 2 tax relief).
- **Lifespan**: 10 to 15+ years.
The Verdict
For young patients or those seeking minimal invasion and quick budget-friendly results, composite bonding is exceptional. For comprehensive smile makeovers with long-term stain resistance, porcelain veneers offer supreme longevity.
