Dental Bonding is an option usually used for relatively small imperfections in the teeth. It can be viewed as a simplified version of a veneer or crown. Even with the most diligent care and hygiene, many dental issues such as discoloration or breakage can arise simply through normal wear and age. Bonding is one of the simplest and most cost-effective solutions for many of these minor dental issues. Bonding is a composite resin or plastic filling that can be used on either the front or the back of the teeth to repair fractures, decay, chips, or discoloration. Bonding can be accomplished in a single dental visit and does not require custom molds or a laboratory setting to apply. The procedure is referred to as “bonding” due to the manner in which the resin “bonds” to the tooth. Bonding can cover cosmetic flaws by covering them with a thin plastic shell. The cosmetic dentist applies the bonding material and then shapes and sculpts the surface to achieve the desired appearance. An intense light is then used to harden the plastic and the surface is polished. Dental Bonding can be used in place of amalgam fillings or to protect exposed roots as a result of receding gums.
Before the cosmetic dentist applies the bonding solution, a very mild etching chemical is placed on the teeth to prepare the surface for the bonding material. This etching solution creates a rougher surface for the bonding material to adhere. The plastic compound is then applied to the teeth and an intense light bakes the resin into place. Several coats of plastic resin may be applied. After the final layer, the bonding is sculpted and polished. The plastic resin is available in custom colors for accurate matching with your natural teeth. The procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes per tooth to complete, which is longer than a traditional metal filling procedure due to the multiple layers.
Depending on how severe your dental issue is, bonding could be the best solution for your problem. If you have any of the following issues, bonding could help: a small gap that needs filling, tooth decay or cavities, misshapen teeth, cracked or chipped teeth, discoloration or staining, exposed roots, a tooth that needs enlarging.
There is no special care required for dental bonding. Good oral hygiene and regular brushing will be enough to keep the dental bonding in good shape for years to come.
Bonding is usually performed without complications, but if you notice sharp edges or that your bite is not aligned properly in the days after the procedure, contact your dentist to make adjustments to the material.
The cost of a Dental Bonding procedure can vary. Pricing can depend on a number of factors including: how much work is needed to be done, the particular dentist you choose, and your particular geographical location.
