Do you want a perfect smile but don’t know how to get it? Cosmetic dental bonding may be the answer. This procedure involves using tooth-colored material, known as composite resin, to improve the appearance of teeth.
Cosmetic dental bonding is one of the simpler and more affordable ways to enhance a person’s smile. It can treat decayed teeth, chips, and discolorations that cannot be improved with other treatments, such as bleaching or crowns. Bonding also works well when closing a gap between two front teeth or reshaping a crooked tooth.
We will discuss what cosmetic dental bonding is, how it works, and how much it costs. When considering dental bonding as an option, it is important to understand what it can do for your smile before making any commitment.
What is dental bonding?
Dental bonding is a procedure used by dentists to repair and restore teeth that are chipped, cracked, discolored, or misaligned. The bonding material – which can often be tooth-colored composite resin – is applied to the affected area and hardened with a light or laser. It’s an affordable and relatively quick fix for minor dental issues, as the entire procedure can be done in less than one hour. Bonding is not only used to improve the aesthetics of your smile but can also help prevent further damage because it seals the ravaged area from bacteria and debris.
What is dental bonding used for?
Dental bonding is often used to improve the appearance of natural teeth. It uses composite resin to create a stronger, more aesthetically pleasing tooth shape. Bonding materials can be used to restore chips, replace decayed areas, reinforce cavities, and even as an alternative to dental veneers or crowns in some cases. Also, dental bonding can help reduce gaps between teeth and improve overall spacing and symmetry.
Smile Benefits of Tooth Bonding
Tooth bonding is a great dental treatment that can be used cosmetically and functionally. It can help improve the appearance of your smile, as well as strengthen and protect teeth. Composite bonding is also a great option for those who want to make minor changes to their teeth without undergoing more invasive treatments such as porcelain veneers or dental crowns.
Some of the great benefits dental bonding can offer patients are –
- It can improve the appearance of your teeth and give you a brighter, healthier-looking smile.
- It can be designed to match your existing teeth in shape and color.
- It can be used to fill in gaps between teeth, reshape chipped or misshapen teeth, fix a discolored tooth, or even improve alignment.
- It provides instant results and can help boost your self-confidence with an improved smile.
- The procedure itself is non-invasive and doesn’t require any type of anesthesia.
The Dental Bonding Procedure
Dental bonding can be used to restore and enhance the appearance of teeth. The process involves placing a composite resin material, which is the same color as tooth enamel, onto the affected tooth. The dentist then hardens and shapes it to match the surrounding teeth. This helps restore an aesthetically pleasing shape and color to the tooth, as well as improve its strength and durability. The bonding procedure typically can be completed in a single visit and usually requires no numbing before or during the process. The result is natural-looking, strong teeth that will last for several years with proper care and maintenance.
Caring for Your Bonded Tooth
If you have a bonded tooth, proper care is essential for helping it stay healthy and look its best. Here are a few tips for caring for your bonded tooth:
- Brush at least twice a day with a soft-bristled brush and non-abrasive toothpaste. This will help prevent plaque buildup and reduce the risk of decay.
- Floss daily to remove food particles and plaque from hard-to-reach areas around the bonding material.
- Avoid smoking, as it can stain the bonding material over time.
- Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings to ensure that no damage has occurred since your last visit. Your dentist can also provide additional advice on how best to care for your bonded tooth going forward.
Dental Bonding FAQs
How much is dental bonding?
The cost of dental bonding can vary depending on the extent of the procedure and the type of material used. Generally, bonding costs between $300 and $600 per tooth. However, some insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost, but generally, they do not cover cosmetic procedures. It’s best to contact your insurance provider to find out if they offer any coverage for this cosmetic treatment.
Does composite resin bonding damage the teeth?
No, composite resin bonding does not cause any damage to your teeth. In fact, it can actually help protect your teeth from further damage. Composite resin bonding is a type of dental restoration that can strengthen weakened or damaged teeth and restore the natural shape and appearance of your smile. It is also capable of protecting against decay and other issues, such as staining, chipping, or cracking. With proper care and maintenance, composite resin bonding can be a safe and effective way to improve the look of your smile.
Can bonding be completed in one visit to the dentist?
Yes, bonding can often be completed in one visit to the dentist. Bonding is a type of dental procedure that involves applying a composite resin material to your teeth and using a special light to harden them in place. This process typically takes only one visit to complete. However, depending on the extent of the damage to your teeth, more than one appointment may be needed in order to achieve optimal results.
Is bonding the same as dental fillings?
No, bonding and dental fillings are two different procedures. Bonding is a procedure used to cosmetically change the look of your teeth by applying a tooth-colored resin to the tooth surface. This resin is then shaped and hardened with a special light. Dental fillings, on the other hand, involve removing decay from teeth and replacing it with a material like an amalgam or composite resin. While both procedures can improve the appearance of your teeth, they are not the same.
Contact Our Office to Schedule an Appointment
If you’re interested in learning more about cosmetic dental bonding, contact our office to schedule an appointment. Our experienced team of dentists can help you determine if this procedure is right for you and provide a detailed cost estimate.