Dental Bonding
What is dental bonding?
Dental bonding is a cosmetic procedure that can improve the appearance of chipped, cracked, or discoloured teeth. Dental bonding can also be performed to reduce gaps or spaces between teeth and to change the colour, size, or shape of teeth.
How does dental bonding work?
Tooth bonding works in three simple steps. The first step involves selecting the composite resin colour that matches the shade of your tooth. The next step is the actual bonding process. During this phase, the dentist will apply the tooth-colored resin material to the affected teeth using adhesives and a laser or blue LED. The last step involves hardening the resin material using a laser or blue LED before further trimming or shaping.
Who is a good candidate for dental bonding?
A good candidate for tooth bonding is anyone who displays the following signs:
- Aesthetic problems with their smile
- Excessive tooth decay
- Severely damaged tooth
- Tooth chips or fractures
How long does dental bonding last?
Composite bonding lasts for as long as 10 years. However, you must take good care of your teeth for the bonding to last that long.
Is dental bonding durable?
Dental bonding is highly durable. The composite resin material used for this procedure is relatively tough and can withstand harsh situations and elements such as hard bites and sugary foods. Nonetheless, you’re encouraged to adhere to proper oral care.
How long does dental bonding take?
The process of dental bonding takes 60 or more minutes. However, the duration depends on the amount of work required and the severity of the tooth discoloration or dental decay.
Will the dental bonding material match my tooth?
The most exciting aspect of teeth bonding is that the composite resin material used will always match the colour of your teeth. Your dentist will select a shade that naturally matches the colour of the affected teeth. Additionally, the bonding material can be trimmed and shaped to fit any size.
Does dental bonding hurt?
Dental bonding is normally painless. In fact, the process of bonding doesn’t require anaesthesia unless drilling is required, or the chip is close to a nerve. Some patients complain of increased sensitivity or discomfort immediately after the procedure, but this usually only lasts for a few days afterwards. In rare cases, patients experience allergic reactions to the composite resin or the conditioning liquid.
Proper care of bonded teeth
Bonded teeth don’t require any special attention apart from normal brushing and flossing twice a day. Nevertheless, you should follow proper oral hygiene to prolong the lifespan of your bonded teeth. Avoid bad habits such as chewing pen caps or other hard objects, biting your fingernails or grinding your teeth.
For more information or to book an appointment, contact a Dental Choice clinic near you. We’re here to help.