Dental bonding is a cosmetic procedure used for a variety of situations, depending upon the desires of the patient. A resinous material is used in this type of procedure, which closely matches the color of surrounding teeth. This resin is bonded to a tooth to correct:
- Cracked or chipped teeth
- Decayed teeth
- Stained or discolored teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Correcting the size of a tooth
- As a substitute for amalgam fillings
Dental Bonding Procedure
For most patients, the entire procedure takes anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes, depending upon how many teeth require treatment. Your dentist will carefully select a resin color that matches your surrounding teeth. They will etch the surface of treated teeth and apply a bonding agent. This ensures that the composite adheres better to your teeth.
Next, your dentist will progressively sculpt the composite as it is applied, layer by layer. A special UV light will be used to harden this material once enough has been applied into the desired shape. This material will dry, and your dentist will then polish the material for a smooth finish.
You will not require anesthesia to undergo a dental bonding procedure.
One thing to be aware of is that the composite material is not as strong as your natural teeth, so there is a chance that it might detach from your tooth or become damaged in some way.
You will want to avoid things like fingernail biting, chewing on ice, and eating hard food and candies. You should also avoid the consumption of beverages that can stain your teeth, like coffee and tea. Also avoid smoking tobacco products.
Treatment Summary
- Treated teeth are etched in preparation for bonding.
- Composite and liquid bonding are placed onto the tooth; the bonding material will be sculpted and smoothed.
- A UV light is used to “cure”, or harden the material.
- The composite receives a nice polish and shaping so that it matches your surrounding teeth.
- The tooth is now restored.
Dental Bonding Aftercare