Basic Guide to Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is a quick and effective way to repair small imperfections on teeth. During the bonding process, composite resin is applied to repair chipped, decayed, discolored, or fractured teeth. Bonding can be completed in a single visit, and does not cause any pain or discomfort. In addition to cosmetic benefits, dental bonding can also be used to fill cavities. Once the resin has been applied to the teeth, the results are permanent. Learn more about dental bonding to determine if the procedure may be right for you.
 
When Is Dental Bonding Used?
Bonding is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to improve the appearance of your smile. The composite resin used in dental bonding can be easily shaped and polished to match your surrounding teeth for a good looking finish. In addition to fixing chipped or discolored teeth, bonding can also close spaces between teeth, make teeth appear longer, or change the shape of your teeth. The most common reasons people turn to dental bonding includes:
·       To fill a small gap between two teeth
·       To change the shape of a tooth
·       To repair decayed teeth by filling in the cavities
·       To eliminate discoloration
·       To make a tooth appear longer
·       To protect the root of a tooth that has receding gums
 
 
Are You a Good Candidate for Dental Bonding?
To determine if you're a good candidate for dental bonding, you must be examined by a dentist. Once the tooth in question has been analyzed, your dentist can determine the best course of action for treatment. Dental bonding is not suitable in all situations. For example, bonding cannot usually be applied to teeth that undergo a great amount of pressure, typically from chewing or biting. It is also not a good solution for covering big areas of teeth or for major damage. If you only have small imperfections, dental bonding is an excellent choice.
 
How Does Dental Bonding Work?
Dental bonding is a simple, straight-forward procedure that can be completed within one visit to your dentist. Local anesthesia is not typically needed, unless a cavity is being filled. After your dentist examines the tooth, they will decide on a resin color to match the bonding material as closely as possible to your natural teeth. The tooth must then be prepared for bonding by roughening up the surface. Tooth-colored resin is then applied to the area where the dentist will mold and smooth the surface until it resembles your other teeth. A special light is used to harden the resin material.
 
How to Care for Bonded Teeth
Caring for your bonded teeth is virtually the same as caring for your natural teeth. It's essential to maintain good oral hygiene, including daily brushing and flossing. It's also important to visit your dentist at least twice a year for a checkup and dental cleaning. During each checkup, ask your dentist to check on your bonded teeth. In some instances, small fixes may need to be made to keep your bonded teeth looking their best.