If you want to fix a chipped tooth, close a small gap or change the shape or colour of your front teeth, you will usually be offered one of two options: composite bonding or porcelain veneers. At our clinic, bonding starts from ₹4,000 per tooth and porcelain veneers from ₹16,000. Both can look excellent. They differ in how long they last, how much tooth is prepared, and how they age.
What composite bonding is
Composite bonding uses a tooth-coloured resin that is shaped directly on the tooth and hardened with a light. It is usually done in a single visit, often with little or no drilling. It is good for small chips, small gaps, slightly short or uneven edges, and for trying out a change before committing to something more permanent.
What porcelain veneers are
A porcelain veneer is a thin ceramic shell made to fit the front of the tooth. A thin layer of enamel is usually removed so the veneer sits naturally, then the veneers are designed, tried in and bonded over a few visits. Porcelain can change colour, shape and size together, and is the usual choice when several teeth are being redesigned as a set.
Side by side
| Composite bonding | Porcelain veneers | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price at Nanda Dental | ₹4,000 per tooth | ₹16,000 onwards |
| Visits | Usually one | A few |
| Tooth preparation | Little or none | A thin layer of enamel, usually |
| Staining | Can pick up stains from tea, coffee and smoking | Resists staining well |
| Durability | Chips more easily; easy to repair | Stronger and longer-lasting; harder to repair |
| Best for | Small chips, small gaps, minor reshaping | Full smile redesign, heavy discolouration, worn teeth |
How long each one lasts
How long either lasts depends heavily on your bite and habits. Composite bonding tends to need polishing, repair or replacement sooner than porcelain, especially on biting edges. Well-made porcelain veneers usually last considerably longer and keep their shine. At our clinic, veneers are covered for up to 5 years: if one cracks, breaks or comes off in that time, we replace it. If you grind your teeth, a night guard protects either option.
Three questions that usually decide it
1. How much do you want to change? A single chip or a small gap is usually a bonding job. Changing the colour and shape of six to ten teeth together is usually a veneer job.
2. Are your teeth straight? If teeth are crooked, straightening them first with Invisalign often means less tooth needs to be prepared for veneers, or that bonding alone is enough afterwards. Read about closing a gap between the front teeth.
3. Are your gums healthy? The edge of a veneer or bonding sits at the gum line, so bleeding or receding gums need treating first. As a periodontist, this is the first thing I check. See gum treatment.
Whiten first
Neither composite nor porcelain changes colour with whitening. If you want whiter teeth overall, whitening should be done before the shade of your bonding or veneers is chosen, so everything matches.
Getting advice
The right choice depends on your teeth, bite and gums, so it is decided after an examination, not from a photo. The first consultation at our clinics is free. See veneers in Gurgaon and smile makeovers, or message us on WhatsApp on +91 98219 58877.
Frequently asked questions
How much does composite bonding cost compared with porcelain veneers?
At Nanda Dental Clinic, composite bonding starts from ₹4,000 per tooth and porcelain veneers start from ₹16,000. The total depends on how many teeth are treated.
Which lasts longer, bonding or veneers?
Porcelain veneers usually last longer and resist staining better than composite bonding. Composite is easier and cheaper to repair or redo, but tends to chip and discolour sooner.
Does composite bonding damage teeth?
Bonding usually needs little or no removal of tooth surface, which is one of its main advantages. Porcelain veneers usually need a thin layer of enamel removed.
Can I whiten my teeth after bonding or veneers?
No. Neither composite nor porcelain changes colour with whitening, so any whitening should be done before the shade of the bonding or veneers is chosen.
Is there a warranty on veneers at Nanda Dental?
Yes. Veneers placed at our clinic are covered for up to 5 years: if one cracks, breaks or comes off in that time, we replace it.
General information only, not a diagnosis. Your dentist will advise what suits you after an examination.
Recent Comments