Dental Bonding Explained

Dental Bonding Explained

Posted by Laura Snyder DDS on Jun 9 2017, 02:09 AM

Dental bonding is one tool in the toolbox of a cosmetic dentist. Compared with many other cosmetic dental treatments, bonding is quicker, easier, and less invasive. The most common use of dental bonding is to fill cavities, but the technique can also be used to repair chipped or cracked teeth, to change the shape of teeth, to fill in gaps between teeth, to get rid of stubborn stains on teeth, or to replace old-school amalgam fillings with a more aesthetic option. Teeth come in many shapes and sizes, and it is very common to have a tooth that just didn’t grow in the right shape. Dental bonding is a quick and easy way to make many repairs to teeth.

What is the Process for dental bonding?

Unlike many cosmetic dental procedures, dental bonding can typically be completed in one office visit. First, we will prepare the area of the tooth where the bonding will take place. Generally, bonding procedures don’t require anesthetic. However, an anesthetic will be necessary if the tooth needs to be drilled first, as is the case in a cavity. Next, we will etch the surface to be bonded so that the bonding can adhere to the tooth. Then we will apply the bonding, which is made of a type of plastic called composite resin. Composite resin is designed in such a way so that when it is exposed to light of a certain wavelength, typically high in the visible range or low in the ultraviolet range, it polymerizes and hardens. The light only polymerizes 2-3mm deep in the resin, so if a deep filling is required, multiple layers will be necessary. After we harden the composite, she will sculpt and polish it to give it just the right appearance.

How long does dental bonding last?

Composite resin is a fairly hard and durable material; however, it is not as hard as your tooth’s natural enamel, nor is it as hard as dental porcelain. Consequently, the resin will wear down over time and need to be replaced. 3-5 years is a typical lifespan for bonded composite resin.

Give us a call today to find out if dental bonding is right for you, and get on the path to a perfect smile!

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