Cosmetic Bonding

If you have a cracked or chipped tooth, stained teeth, or teeth that don't match in size, shape or spacing, Cosmetic Bonding may be an effective solution to correct these aesthetic problems and give you a natural-looking smile. Compared to other cosmetic or restorative procedures, dental bonding is relatively inexpensive, comfortable, and affects your natural teeth very little.

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To begin the process, your dentist will prepare the tooth's surface by conditioning it with an etching solution and may reshape it slightly. Then, a durable tooth-colored composite resin is applied to the tooth and hardened with a curing light. More layers are added, sculpted and polished for a realistic finish. The results are most often accomplished in just one visit, and the tooth repair with Cosmetic Bonding can be very artistic and lifelike.

Cosmetic Bonding can serve as a permanent solution to restore your smile, or as a temporary restoration while more advanced procedures such as porcelain veneers or crowns are planned. It's also a great solution for kids who chip or break their teeth, as tooth-related injuries are common among young children and teenagers.

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However, over time, composite resins can absorb stains just as natural teeth do. If you have habits such as drinking coffee, tea, or wine, or smoking cigarettes, your composite restorations may become more discolored. Porcelain veneers or crowns may be a better choice for you if you have these habits since they don't stain and are longer-lasting. Also, avoid habits like nail-biting as they can cause the bonding material to chip.

The longevity of your bonded teeth largely depends on your oral habits. Adults, teenagers, and children have all enjoyed the benefits of bonding with composite resin. If you are unsure whether Cosmetic Bonding is right for you, schedule an appointment with your dentist to find out.

Dental bonding can also be used to fill small cavities, repair cracks or chips, and even to protect tooth roots that have been exposed due to gum recession. It's a quick and simple procedure that can be completed in a single visit, typically taking less than an hour to complete.

Additionally, dental bonding is a minimally invasive procedure. Unlike other dental treatments, such as veneers or crowns, which require the removal of a significant amount of healthy tooth structure, bonding only requires a small amount of enamel to be removed. This helps to preserve the natural tooth structure, which is always the primary goal of dentistry.

Another advantage of dental bonding is that it's a reversible procedure. If you're not satisfied with the results or if your needs change in the future, the bonding material can be easily removed without damaging your natural teeth.

However, there are some limitations to dental bonding. The composite resin used in bonding is not as strong as natural tooth enamel, and it can be prone to chipping or breaking. This means that bonding may not be the best choice for larger restorations or teeth that are subjected to heavy biting forces. In these cases, a more durable material, such as porcelain, may be a better option.

Overall, dental bonding is an excellent option for many patients looking to improve the appearance of their smile or repair minor dental issues. However, it's important to discuss your individual needs and goals with your dentist to determine whether bonding is the best choice for you. Your dentist can evaluate your teeth and recommend the most appropriate treatment to help you achieve your desired results.

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