Do you have a problem with one of your teeth that you want to fix? If so, you'll likely visit a dentist for a consultation. They'll recommend a variety of procedures, some of which perform similar functions while being executed in different ways. Here is what you need to know about some common dental procedures that can be used to fix your teeth or hide the damage.

Veneers

Dental veneers are a thin porcelain shell that is attached the front surface of your teeth. They work great for hiding cosmetic problems, such as discoloration, cracks, and teeth that are an odd shape. The installation process actually requires shaving off a thin layer of the tooth to make room for the veneers and create a rough surface for them to attach to, which will permanently damage the teeth. You will not be able to remove the veneers if you do not like them since it will leave that surface of the teeth exposed.

One thing to be aware of is that dental veneers cannot be used to hide a missing tooth. The veneer surface must be attached to a tooth, and cannot bridge a gap across them to give the appearance of a tooth for one that is not there.

Crowns

Crowns are essentially a cap that is placed on the tooth to improve its strength and stability. If you have a tooth that is damaged and on the verge of breaking, a crown can help save the tooth so that it retains the existing root structure and place in your jawbone. Installing a crown is another destructive dental procedure since it requires removing parts of the tooth to make room for the crown. It will require that you continue to have the crown maintained over the years, even if it becomes loose and falls out. Crowns can be used to create a dental bridge to fix a missing tooth, or even to cover cosmetic damage.

Bonding

Dental bonding is used when you have a portion of your tooth that is discolored, missing, or misshapen. Bonding material is applied to a tooth to cover damage or rebuild part of a tooth that is no longer there, and cured with heat to provide instant results by the time you leave the office. It's a more affordable procedure, which can serve the same purpose of veneers or crowns in the right situations.

Speak to your cosmetic dentist for more information about any of these three procedures.