Dental Bonding Questions
Cosmetic Dentistry Directory
What is dental bonding?
It's a malleable, white substance which cosmetic dentists use to repair small defects. Although it's soft when applied to the tooth, use of a curing light afterwards makes it hard and durable. It can be done in one short visit and is painless, as the treated tooth needs only a very thin layer of enamel scuffed off. This is to make the tooth surface bond more strongly with the bonding.
The term dental bonding is used in two ways:
- It can refer to the white substance used to repair small defects like chips or gaps
- It can also refer to a very similar white substance used to attach porcelain restorations to the teeth. In this context, bonding is a thinner material than the variety used to fill in small chips or gaps.
When used to repair tooth defects, bonding is matched to your natural tooth color. Although it resembles dental porcelain in that they're both white and matched to your teeth, bonding lacks the subtle coloration and pearly shine of porcelain. Even after the curing light has hardened it, it's still a bit softer than porcelain and will not last as many years. It will also stain, along with your natural teeth, from any strongly pigmented foods or drinks, such as those often-mentioned culprits, coffee, black tea, and red wine. However, it costs less than porcelain.
What is the procedure for dental bonding?
Your cosmetic dentist will select the bonding color that most closely matches your natural teeth. Next, the surface of the tooth will be slightly roughened so that it bonds more strongly to the restoration. The resin is then applied and molded to the desired shape, and a curing light used to harden the material. The material will then be shaped and polished to ensure it matches your other teeth.
Will dental bonding hurt?
No. Dental bonding is a simple and quick procedure that can usually be completed in under an hour. Anesthesia is usually not necessary unless the tooth to be bonded is already decayed and must be cleaned out and filled.
What are the benefits of dental bonding?
Dental bonding is a simple and quick procedure that can give you a brightened and more even smile in just one visit. Because of this simplicity, dental bonding is less expensive than other cosmetic procedures.
How long does dental bonding last?
Bonding typically lasts from three to ten years before needing to be touched up or replaced.
Do bonded teeth require special care?
The bonding could chip, so you should avoid biting or chewing on any hard objects. Other than that, you can take care of your bonded teeth the same as your other teeth by simply following good dental hygiene practices. Brush your teeth after every meal, floss daily and see your dentist for regular scheduled check-ups and cleaning.
