After having bonding on four front teeth since 2001, my dentist wants to replace the Lumineers because he says it’s easier. I am not sure what makes veneers easier, though. The bonding is yellowing. It didn’t help that I whitened my teeth and home and made the bonding more noticeable. I know Lumineers are supposed to be no-prep, but I am worried about tooth enamel damage if my dentist decides I need a little preparation. Should I insist on bonding? Thank you. Tyrelle from Chicago

Tyrelle,

Thank you for your question.

Can You Remove Dental Bonding?

A dentist with advanced cosmetic dentistry training can remove and replace dental bonding. Dental bonding removal may include one or more of these techniques.

• Flexible sandpaper discs to maintain tooth shape while removing the bonding
• Carbide polishing drills and a sandpaper disc to remove any streaks left
• Air-abrasion equipment for gentle removing

Replacing Dental Bonding with Lumineers

A dentist can replace your dental bonding with Lumineers, but it is your choice. If you do not need to conceal any significant imperfections in your teeth, your dentist should not try to convince you to get Lumineers. Your dentist may say that he prefers Lumineers due to his discomfort with dental bonding. Although Lumineers are famous for not requiring preparation, without preparation, your teeth may look bulky with veneers bonded to their fronts.

Placing dental bonding requires advanced training and an artistic eye. Dentists apply it by hand. Only skilled cosmetic dentists have the bonding materials and tools to match any patient’s teeth perfectly. If your dentist lacks 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.