Dental Bondings
Dental bonding is a procedure in which a tooth-colored resin material is applied and hardened with a special light, ultimately 'bonding' the material to the tooth to improve a person's smile.
Benefits
Quick and painless procedure, typically completed in one visit
Less expensive than other cosmetic dental procedures
Preserves more tooth enamel compared to veneers or crowns
Can repair chipped or cracked teeth, close small gaps, and improve the appearance of discolored teeth
No special care required beyond good oral hygiene practices
Procedure Details
The Bonding Procedure
Little preparation is needed for dental bonding. Anesthesia is often not necessary unless the bonding is being used to fill a decayed tooth. Your dentist will use a shade guide to select a composite resin color that will closely match the color of your tooth.
Application Process
The surface of the tooth will be roughened and a conditioning liquid applied. These procedures help the bonding material adhere to the tooth. The tooth-colored, putty-like resin is then applied, molded, and smoothed to the desired shape. The material is then hardened with an ultraviolet light or laser.
Finishing Touches
After the bonding material hardens, your dentist will further trim and shape it, then polish it to match the sheen of the rest of the tooth surface. The procedure usually takes 30 minutes to an hour to complete. If you're having more than one tooth done, you may need to schedule several visits.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does dental bonding last?
Dental bonding typically lasts between 3 and 10 years, depending on how much bonding was done and your oral habits.
Is dental bonding appropriate for all teeth?
Bonding is best suited for small cosmetic changes, minor corrections, and areas of low bite pressure (like front teeth). For larger repairs or areas with high bite pressure, crowns or veneers may be more appropriate.
Does dental bonding require special care?
No, just follow good oral hygiene practices. Brush at least twice a day, floss at least once a day, and see your dentist regularly. Avoid biting down on hard items like ice, hard candy, or pens, as this can chip the bonding material.