Bonding

Dental bonding is a conservative cosmetic treatment that improves the appearance of chipped, discolored, or misshapen teeth using composite resin to repair and restore the tooth surface.

Bonding can transform the appearance of a smile. The procedure is commonly used for:

• Repairing chips and minor cracks
• Covering stained or discolored enamel
• Closing small gaps between teeth
• Remodeling the contours of teeth that are undersized, crooked, or misshapen
• Rebuilding areas where enamel erosion has taken place
• Creating inconspicuous, tooth-colored fillings

The procedure begins with an exam to make sure the tooth is healthy and a good candidate for bonding. The tooth surface is prepared, and a specially formulated dental adhesive is applied, enabling the composite resin to “bond” to the tooth structure.

The composite resin is put in place and molded to the desired shape. The resin material is carefully color-matched, so the bonding is indistinguishable from natural tooth enamel. Once in place, the resin is hardened with a curing light. The bonding is given a final check for fit and shape, then smoothed and polished.

Bonding is a popular choice in cosmetic dentistry because it is convenient, cost-effective, and minimally invasive.

• Bonding can frequently be completed in one visit and often without the use of an anesthetic.
• Bonding is less expensive than veneers or crowns.
• While veneers and crowns last longer and are less vulnerable to chipping or staining, these procedures require the removal of more tooth structure.

Dental bonding is not an option for every tooth. Major chips and cracks, deep decay, or serious misalignment might require alternative treatment. Talk to your dentist to discover whether bonding is the right choice to enhance the natural beauty of your smile.

Bonding and White Fillings

Bonding is a popular method to enhance the aesthetics of your smile. Bonding can be used to correct cracks or gaps in teeth, as a filling after a cavity has been removed, or to cover up stains or discolored teeth.

A composite resin is used on the affected tooth or teeth. It is molded and sculpted over an adhesive gel that is placed on the tooth. After the resin has been applied, an LED light is used to harden the resin, which is then polished to give you a fresh, new smile.

Bonding is an obvious improvement over unsightly silver amalgam fillings. With the advancements in dental technology, bonding usually lasts for over 10 years. It is a safe, affordable, and attractive solution for many dental problems.