Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a cosmetic dental procedure that enhances the appearance of teeth that are misshapen, cracked, chipped or discolored. Bonding also has other uses in dentistry. For purposes of this article, we’ll be focusing on the cosmetic uses of dental bonding.
How does it work?
Dental bonding involves the application of composite resin, improving the appearance of your teeth and making them appear more white.
Dental bonds are similar to shallow dental fillings. Although they are not as strong as crowns or dental veneers, bonds are typically used on front teeth for cosmetic reasons.
What situations are appropriate for dental bonding?
A dentist may recommend that a patient undergo dental bonding to enhance the appearance of their teeth and smile when they have problems like:
- Tooth decay
- Exposed tooth root due to recession of the gums
- Stained teeth appearing yellow, gray or brown
- Minor chips or cracks not being treated with procedures like a crown or root canal
- Misshapen teeth, such as teeth that are overly short or have gaps between them
What To Consider
When it comes to dental bonding, there are a few things to consider to ensure that you achieve your treatment goals.
Desired Shade
The composite used in dental bonding matches the color of natural teeth, but there are some variations in colors, as teeth can be slightly different shades.
One thing to consider is that composite does not whiten. So if you subsequently underwent a teeth whitening procedure, your bonded teeth will not change color, while your surrounding teeth would be whitened, leading to disappointing results. So if you are planning to whiten your teeth, do it before you undergo dental bonding.
Desired Shape
Your dentist can bond your teeth to match the shape of your natural teeth. However, you may not be happy with the shape of your natural teeth. You may be able to have your bonding procedure performed to look like the desired shape of your teeth. You just need to consult first with your dentist.
Dental Bonding FAQ
Here are a few frequently asked questions about dental bonding:
Are there any downsides to bonding?
One disadvantage of dental bonding is that it stains easily. Anything that could stain your natural teeth can stain your dental bonding even more easily.
Is also important to understand that dental bonding is not a permanent treatment. Bonds can last for up to eight years before repairs are needed.
What makes dental bonding so popular?
One thing that patients like about dental bonding is that it is a non-invasive procedure. No tooth enamel needs to be removed.
Dental bonding is also an extremely versatile cosmetic procedure. Just by using composite resin, your dentist can help you achieve a variety of transformative changes to your teeth and smile, fixing numerous flaws with only one treatment.
How should I care for my dental bond?
Composite is not a particularly strong material, so you must take care to avoid damaging it. Make sure that you clean your dental bonds like regular teeth, and avoid consuming foods and beverages that could stain them.