Tooth bonding is a popular and often effective cosmetic dental procedure. It could dramatically improve the appearance of your smile in just one visit. Whether you’re dealing with chipped teeth, gaps, discoloration, or slight misalignments, bonding offers a quick and cost-effective solution. Understanding the tooth bonding process can help you make an informed decision about your oral health and smile.
What Is Tooth Bonding?
Tooth bonding involves applying a tooth-colored resin material to the teeth, which is then hardened using a special light. This process “bonds” the material to the tooth, allowing the dentist to shape and polish it to match the surrounding teeth. It’s a minimally invasive procedure that doesn’t typically require anesthesia unless it’s being used to fill a cavity.
When Is Tooth Bonding Used?
Bonding is often recommended for repairing damaged teeth and covering discoloration that may not respond to whitening. In some cases, bonding could help close minor gaps between teeth. It may also be used to protect exposed roots. Bonding is most ideal for minor cosmetic changes. Excessive damage, decay, or discoloration often required more extensive work. Your dentist may recommend porcelain veneers or dental crowns if bonding is not the right fit.
The Bonding Procedure
To start, your dentist will select a composite resin color that closely matches your natural teeth. This helps to ensure the bonding blends with your smile. In most cases, anesthesia isn’t necessary during treatment, However, if bonding is being used to fill a decayed tooth, your dentist may numb the area first.
Next, the surface of the tooth is gently roughened, and a conditioning liquid is applied. This helps the bonding material adhere more securely to the tooth. Your dentist then applies a putty-like resin. They shape and mold it to achieve the desired look.
Once the resin is shaped correctly, a high-intensity light is used to harden it quickly. This usually takes just a few seconds. After the resin is cured, your dentist trims and polishes it to match the sheen of the rest of your teeth. The entire process typically takes 30 to 60 minutes per tooth. It can often be completed in one visit.
Aftercare and Longevity
Tooth bonding doesn’t require any special care beyond good oral hygiene. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and regular dental checkups will help maintain the bonded tooth. However, the resin isn’t as strong as natural tooth enamel. Therefore it’s important to avoid habits like biting fingernails, chewing on pens, or crunching hard foods and ice. With proper care, bonded teeth can last anywhere from 3 to 10 years before needing a touch-up or replacement.
Tooth Bonding in Carrollton, TX
At Hebron Family Dentistry, we believe everyone should have a smile they can feel confident showing off. If you have minor cosmetic imperfections, dental bonding could help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your cosmetic treatment options.