Dental bonding is a simple cosmetic treatment for fixing cracks, chips, and other imperfections. It’s typically done in one visit and requires no downtime.
Composite resin is directly applied to the tooth and shaped to hide stains, close gaps, or reshape uneven teeth. It’s also a great way to conceal dental work or fillings.
It’s Affordable
Dental bonding is one of the least expensive cosmetic procedures for repairing minor chips, cracks, discoloration, or even for lengthening or closing gaps in your teeth. It’s also less costly than some other restorative treatments, such as dental implants or tooth crowns. In some cases, Kool Smiles’ insurance partner may cover some of the cost for this procedure.
A composite resin matched to the shade of your teeth is used to bond the surface of the tooth. The dentist “etching” the enamel of the tooth, a process similar to sanding wood before painting, helps the resin adhere to the tooth. The dentist shapes and polishes the bonded tooth to make it blend in with the rest. The treatment is usually completed within 30 to 60 minutes per tooth.
Bonding is a great option for patients with a limited budget or who aren’t candidates for other cosmetic or restorative procedures, such as a dental bridge or implant. It’s not as stain-resistant as porcelain restorations, but with proper care, a bonded tooth can last up to 10 years before need of repair or touch-up. Daily brushing and flossing, regular dental checkups, and avoiding bad oral habits, such as biting your nails or chewing on pens and pencils, will help to keep your bonded tooth looking its best. A consultation with a Bunker Hill Dentistry dentist will help you determine if this is the right procedure for your needs.
It’s Fast
Dental bonding is a fast procedure that can be completed in a single visit to the dentist’s office. Your dentist uses a shade guide to pick out composite resin that closely matches the natural color of your teeth. She then roughens and lightly coats the surface of your tooth with a conditioning liquid to help the bonding material adhere to the enamel. Then she applies the putty-like resin to your tooth and molds it to the correct shape. Then she uses a special bright light to cure the composite and polishes it for a natural sheen.
The bonding process typically takes 30 to 60 minutes per tooth. You might need anesthesia if the dentist has to drill and fill a chip that is close to a nerve, but this is unusual. The entire treatment is relatively painless, especially when compared to other restorative treatments like crowns and veneers.
You can expect your bonded teeth to last 3-10 years before needing touch-ups or replacement. However, the longevity of your bonding will depend on your oral hygiene habits. Avoid consuming hard or stain-producing foods and beverages, and continue to practice good oral care including daily brushing, flossing, using mouthwash, and scheduling professional cleanings twice a year. Your dentist will provide you with more specific information about how long your bonding will last.
It’s Lifelike
As a cosmetic procedure, dental bonding is one of the most lifelike and least invasive options available. This treatment utilizes composite resin, which is the same material that is used for tooth fillings, to hide minor damage, reshape teeth and mask discoloration. In fact, it can often be completed in just one office visit without the need for anesthesia.
To perform the treatment, your dentist will help you select a shade of composite resin that closely matches the color of your natural teeth. Then the surface of your tooth will be roughened and conditioned to allow the composite to stick to it. Your dentist then applies the resin, molds and shapes it to correct imperfections, and finally cures and polishes the tooth to perfection.
The bonded tooth is then virtually indistinguishable from the rest of your smile. The only difference is that bonded teeth may not be as stain-resistant as natural tooth enamel or porcelain. As such, it is important to avoid eating or drinking foods that could stain the resin. You should also be wary of biting down on hard objects or pens, which could cause the resin to chip or break.
The good news is that bonded teeth are usually resistant to staining for years after your procedure. However, it is always best to practice good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily. You should also schedule regular dental checkups to ensure that your bonded teeth are healthy.
It’s Easy to Maintain
Dental bonding is a great treatment for chipped teeth, as it covers and repairs cracks, chips, or small gaps in the tooth’s surface. It is also ideal for minor cosmetic restorations like filling in small cavities or whitening teeth. It is an effective and affordable alternative to more extensive treatments like porcelain veneers for a brighter smile.
One of the most appealing aspects of dental bonding is that it looks incredibly natural when completed. During the procedure, your dentist will help you pick a shade of composite resin that matches your existing enamel color. Once the resin is applied, it is shaped and cured with ultraviolet light. Once it is ready, your dentist will polish and smooth the bonded area to ensure a nice, even appearance.
Bonded teeth are as easy to care for as your natural ones. You should stick to good oral hygiene practices, including brushing twice daily and flossing regularly. You should also limit your consumption of staining foods and drinks, like coffee, red wine, and tea. Additionally, you should avoid chewing on pens or biting your nails, as these habits can damage the bonded surface.
You should also visit your dentist for regular cleanings and checkups. Your doctor will ensure that your bonded tooth fixture is in good condition and can replace it if necessary.