Composite Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is a popular and minimally invasive treatment procedure used to fix a range of cosmetic dental issues including: gaps between teeth, cracked or chipped teeth, or discoloration. There are different types of dental bonding, but the most common is the application of direct composite bonding. In this procedure, a composite resin material is applied to your teeth and shaped and molded to look like a tooth. Once the composite is hardened it is strong and will feel like a real tooth and function like a real tooth.

The dental bonding procedure is fast and in most cases, relatively pain free. The length of the appointment depends on the number of teeth that need to be bonded and how damaged the tooth or teeth are that need repair.

Here are the steps to the dental bonding procedure:

• The tooth being repaired is cleaned off and air dried. This is an important step before the dentist applies any of the bonding materials.
• Next, the dentist will apply an adhesive to help prepare the tooth so the bonding adheres smoothly.
• The composite resin is then applied to the surface of the tooth. The kinds of composite resin used may vary from one dentist to the next, and often the resin is made up of several components. Prior to starting the procedure your dentist will make sure to select a composite compound that matches the shade of your teeth.
• The composite is applied to the surface of the tooth in layers until the desired thickness is reached.
• Once the composite is shaped and sculpted to look like your natural teeth, it is hardened using a special light. The light sets the composite material quickly.
• The last step is to clean and polish your brand new tooth or teeth, and to confirm the bonding does not impact the fit of your bite or your smile.

Durability Of Dental Bonding

Although the composite material used is very strong, it is still susceptible to chipping or wear over time. The best way to make sure your restorations last as long as possible is through proper home care. It is important to brush and floss your teeth daily and to visit your dentist regularly. The dental bonding material is susceptible to staining and discoloration, so brushing after consuming dark foods/beverages such as coffee, wine, and tea will help to minimize color change over time. One of the many benefits of dental bonding is that if your bonding does wear down, chip, or discolor, it can always be “touched up” or repaired by a dentist.

Dental Bonding Vs Veneers

Dental Bonding can be used as an easy, accessible, and affordable solution for simple cosmetic improvements to your smile if you have cracked or chipped teeth, or gaps between your teeth. Dental veneers are covers that are crafted from layered ceramics or porcelain by a specialty dental lab outside of the dentist’s office. Unlike dental bonding, veneers fitted and attached indirectly to the front of the actual tooth with a cement material. Veneers are an option for patients that have significant esthetic concerns that may not be addressed with direct composite bonding. Veneers require more time and money, as they need to be custom made in a lab for you. It is recommended to have a discussion with Dr. Carlin or Dr. Chris about which treatment option may be best for addressing your esthetic concerns.