What Is Dental Bonding?
The key to this procedure is a tooth-colored composite material that is applied directly to the tooth. The name “bonding” comes from how the material bonds with the enamel. While this process can potentially be used to treat small cavities, it can be used for many kinds of cosmetic corrections.
Compared to other treatments, bonding is quick and can be done over the course of one appointment. It also doesn’t require the removal of any enamel, so it’s a more conservative treatment than porcelain veneers. The material is very easy to apply (the mouth doesn’t need to be numbed), and the end result is a strong structure that feels like your original tooth.
You can expect the bonding process to last about 30 to 60 minutes. A gentle phosphoric acid is used to roughen the surface of your teeth; this helps the composite material stay in place more easily. Once the material itself has been placed on the enamel, we can shape and sculpt it to help it blend in with the rest of the tooth; we can then harden and set the material using a special light. After that, all that’s left is to polish and buff your tooth, and you can head out into the world with your dazzling, newly repaired grin.
How To Care for Dental Bonding
Dental bonding can last for several years as long as you practice proper maintenance. Avoid coffee, tea, red wine, and other beverages that can leave stains. (Using a straw can help.) Stay away from cigarettes and other tobacco products; they are also infamous for causing dental discoloration.
The material can be chipped somewhat easily, so don’t bite down on anything that’s hard, such as fingernails, ice, pencils, and raw carrots. If you notice a problem with your dental bonding (such as a sharp edge), schedule an appointment with us right away so that we can make the appropriate repairs or touch-ups.
