A small gap between the front teeth, a chipped edge or one tooth that looks longer than the others can bother you every time you smile. The two most common fixes are composite bonding and veneers. They can look similar at first, but they suit different situations.
The short answer
Composite bonding suits small changes on a few teeth: closing small gaps, repairing chips and evening out edges, usually in one visit with little or no drilling. Porcelain veneers suit bigger changes in shape and colour across the smile, take about two visits, and last longer, typically 15 to 20 years with good care.
What is composite bonding?
Bonding uses tooth-coloured resin that is applied in layers, shaped by hand and hardened with a light. The tooth surface is only lightly roughened, so healthy tooth is barely touched. It is quick and largely reversible.
What are veneers?
Veneers are thin shells, usually IPS e.max porcelain, made in a dental lab and bonded to the front of the teeth. A thin layer of enamel is reshaped so they sit naturally. Because they are designed digitally, you can preview the result before treatment starts. See our veneers page for more.
How do bonding and veneers compare?
- Best for: bonding for small fixes on a few teeth; veneers for a fuller change in shape and shade.
- Visits: bonding usually one; veneers usually two.
- Tooth preparation: bonding little or none; veneers a thin layer of enamel.
- Look over time: bonding can stain slowly and needs polishing; porcelain veneers are highly stain-resistant.
- Lifespan: bonding several years, with touch-ups; porcelain veneers typically 15 to 20 years.
How much does each cost in Delhi?
Bonding costs less per tooth than porcelain veneers. At Ark Dental Global, composite veneers range from ₹6,000 to ₹12,000 per tooth and porcelain veneers from ₹25,000 to ₹35,000 per tooth. Your exact cost depends on the number of teeth and is confirmed after an examination. See our treatment cost page.
Which should I choose?
If you are happy with your overall smile and want to fix one or two small things, bonding is often the simplest answer. If you want to change the colour, shape or proportions of several front teeth, veneers usually give a more lasting result. Larger gaps or crooked teeth may be better treated first with Invisalign or braces.
Frequently asked questions
Does bonding damage teeth?
Little or no healthy tooth is removed, which is why bonding is one of the most conservative cosmetic options.
Can bonding close a gap between front teeth?
Small gaps, often yes, in a single visit. Larger gaps may need orthodontic treatment, veneers or a combination.
Can veneers be removed later?
No. Because enamel is reshaped, porcelain veneers are a permanent choice, although they can be replaced when needed.
Can bonding be repaired if it chips?
Yes. Small chips in bonding can usually be repaired or polished in one short visit.
Read more about composite bonding at Ark Dental Global.
Book a consultation in GK-1
Ark Dental Global is at R-27, 1st Floor, Greater Kailash-1, New Delhi 110048, a short drive from GK-2, Kailash Colony, East of Kailash, Lajpat Nagar, South Extension and Saket. We are open Monday to Saturday, 10 AM to 8 PM. Call or WhatsApp +91 99905 09300, or book online.
