Tooth bonding is an effective procedure that can correct problems like chipping, cracking, and discoloration. Tooth bonding typically lasts from three to seven years with normal wear. With proper care, you can prolong the life of your bonding treatment.
About Tooth Bonding
Tooth bonding involves placing a safe composite resin material on a tooth to repair minor damage or aesthetic flaws. Bonding can repair chipped, cracked, gapped, and misshapen teeth and small amounts of decay. It can also make teeth appear longer.
Advantages of Tooth Bonding
Tooth bonding is a painless, non-invasive procedure that even young children can undergo without difficulties. It is versatile in that it covers several types of aesthetic dental issues.
Bonding not only repairs aesthetic problems but can also help prevent future damage by strengthening the tooth structure. Bonding is an affordable option compared to other cosmetic dental procedures. It lasts for years, especially when given proper care.
How Tooth Bonding Works
Dental bonding is a gentle procedure. Unless your dentist fills a cavity, you will probably not need anesthesia.
Before a dental bonding procedure, the dentist will choose the best color composite resin to match your natural tooth color. They will use samples and charts to create the best appearance.
Next, the dentist prepares the tooth’s surface with a safe acid solution. The acid solution roughens the tooth and binds the resin with the enamel.
The dentist adds bonding material to your tooth, using a special light to harden it after each layer. Bonding is part art and part science. The dentist carefully builds the bonded area to create the desired appearance, covering flaws and achieving a seamless, attractive smile.
After the dentist hardens the final layer, they shape and polish the resin to create a smooth, natural look and feel. They may adjust the dental bite to ensure patient comfort.
It takes about 30 to 60 minutes to complete tooth bonding, though it may take longer if you have multiple teeth to cover.
Who is A Candidate for Tooth Bonding?
Adults and children with minor tooth damage or aesthetic flaws are excellent candidates for tooth bonding. The procedure works best with generally healthy teeth.
Bonding is helpful for teenage patients who need to wait until their teeth reach maturity to get more permanent restorations like crowns or veneers.
People with bruxism (chronic tooth grinding) may not see long-lasting results from bonding and may want to use a more permanent restoration like an implant or crown.
If you need tooth bonding but are considering whitening your teeth, you should whiten them before receiving the bonding treatment. Whitening first will help your dentist match the resin color to your brightened teeth. Unlike natural enamel, bonded resin does not respond to teeth whitening treatments.
Tips for Success With Tooth Bonding
While composite resin is a durable material, bonded teeth need conscientious care. Bonding resin may chip or crack, especially if you grind your teeth. Avoid biting your nails, chewing on ice or pens, and using your teeth as tools. Limit the hard candy you eat, and try to avoid biting down on it if you do.
Composite resin is also less stain-resistant than natural tooth enamel. Avoid staining foods and beverages like grape juice, tea, and dark sodas; if you have these foods, brush your teeth as soon as possible. Adults who smoke may also notice more staining on bonded teeth.
Be sure to maintain positive home care habits like regular brushing and flossing to keep your bonded teeth looking their best. Keep all scheduled dental appointments to preserve the look of your smile.
Why Receive Tooth Bonding?
Tooth bonding is a useful cosmetic option for children and adults alike. It lasts for three to seven years when you practice proper oral hygiene. Bonding can repair chipped, cracked, stained, gapped, or decayed teeth. It creates long-lasting, attractive results that blend in with the natural tooth surface.
When you receive a tooth bonding treatment, you can reshape your smile without the hassle and expense of other cosmetic treatments. You can walk out of the office after just one appointment feeling confident about how you look.
Chang Dental Group provides the highest quality dental care in a warm and gentle environment to Natick, MA, and its surrounding areas. Their Services include Cosmetic Bonding, Family Dentistry, Restorative Dentistry, and more.