Dental bonding and fillings are effective dental treatments that can address a wide variety of issues. Because they are both highly common treatment options you may wonder, are dental bonding and fillings the same? Both treatments have some similarities, but they are uniquely different. For example, dental bonding can be both restorative and cosmetic. However, dental fillings are primarily used for restorative purposes. Below you will find more detailed information on the differences between dental bonding and fillings.
Are Dental Bonding and Fillings the Same?
Whether you need dental bonding or fillings depends on your unique dental needs. Instead of researching extensively on your own, it’s best to work with a skilled dentist to determine which one is right for you. Below are some of the key differences between the two treatments.
Dental Bonding:
Dental bonding in Encino is a helpful treatment option that can address both your cosmetic and restorative dentistry needs. This treatment involves the application of tooth-colored resin on areas of your tooth that have been chipped, cracked, discolored, or damaged. It can also be used to address issues such as discoloration or large gaps between your teeth. The tooth-colored resin is made from durable plastic materials that harden under a special curing light. The material effectively bonds to your tooth to restore and improve the look of it. Your dentist in Encino will color match the material to your natural teeth to maintain the uniformity of your smile.
Dental bonding is a fairly fast treatment as it takes just one visit and no more than 30 minutes to an hour. It’s a smooth and pain-free procedure so you won’t need anesthesia. This is ideal for patients who have dental anxiety. In addition to the ease that comes with the treatment, it is also a cost-effective option that provides similar results as compared to alternative treatment options. It can also last up to ten years if you take good care of your oral health.
Dental Fillings:
Dental fillings are the most common dental procedure and are a primarily restorative dental treatment. Fillings are most commonly used to treat damage caused by tooth decay. Tooth decay remains one of the most common dental issues among adults as nearly 90% end up impacted by the issue. A filling can help prevent further tooth decay and address the damage caused by it. Various materials can work for dental fillings, including tooth-colored composite, glass ionomer, porcelain, gold, and silver. Some of them can even color-match your natural teeth.
The treatment is fairly fast and takes between 20 minutes to an hour. In most cases, we apply local anesthetic to reduce any discomfort. If the filling exists only on your tooth’s surface, anesthetic ends up not necessary. Before we apply the filling, we use a dental drill to remove the tooth decay. We then sterilize the area and apply and polish the filling so it functions and looks just like your natural tooth. Depending on the type of material used, fillings can last between 5 to 25 years if you take good care of your oral health.
Dentist in Encino
Choosing the right treatment option can be overwhelming so it’s important to have guidance from a skilled dentist. They can help you determine which treatment option is right for your unique dental needs. If you have a chipped, cracked, gaps in your teeth, discoloration, or tooth decay, contact the team at Encino Family Dental. Dr. Yassa and her team are skilled in a variety of dental treatments, including dental bonding and fillings. They have helped countless patients achieve their desired dental aesthetic. Contact their office today for an appointment!
