Porcelain Veneer Dentin Bonding - Is This as Strong as Enamel?

If given a choice, bonding to enamel is ideal, the bond IS stronger than to dentin.  However, if the enamel is already missing, there isn't much choice.  The bond to dentin is strong enough to be confident that things will stay put.  Last 10-15 years?  Maybe.  Many crowns don't last that long, so don't think that a crown is a better option based on statistics.

If given a choice between a crown or a veneer, most dentists would opt for the veneer.  Well made veneers should last as long or longer than a crown.  Your dentist is giving good advice.

There are excellent indications for both Dental bonding and for porcelain veneers.  Generally speaking bonding is used for smaller sized restorations and porcelain veneers for larger restorations or breaks.  However, age can also play a role in the choice, as childrens teeth have a larger nerve and will also change over time.

With the advent of newer types of porcelain that allow us to create veneers at .3mm thickness, we are now able to do minimal prep veneers and non-prep veneers with materials such as Emax and still be able to to shade and make them look natural.  When doing single veneers custom shading in the mouth is often utilized to get that "perfect" artistic look that blends in with the natural teeth.

As for your question about bonding strength, dentin bonding strength is weaker than the bond to enamel. Is your tooth broken off so badly that there is no enamel? If not then a minimal prep veneer may allow you to retain some enamel for increased strength.

I would need to see a picture of the tooth prior to the procedure.  Depending on the amount of enamel and the strength of the existing tooth the porcelain may need to wrap around the tooth to ensure proper retention.  The tooth should never change color unless the nerve dies and a root canal is needed.