Dental bonding is a routine cosmetic procedure in many dental offices. But what dental problems does bonding solve? In this article, we discuss a variety of cosmetic applications of dental bonding and what the procedure looks like.
What Dental Problems Does Bonding Solve?
Dental bonding is a procedure that uses a material called resin composite to solve a wide range of cosmetic dental issues:
- Dental bonding can cover up cracks in the teeth and repair chipped teeth.
- Dental bonding can be used to mask stains and discoloration on teeth, which can not be removed with teeth whitening procedures.
- With bonding, your dentist can make minor alterations to the shape of your teeth, making them look more unified.
- Bonding can be used to close minor gaps between the teeth by altering the size of the teeth.
- Dental bonding can be used in combination with other methods of treating a “gummy” smile to elongate the teeth.
- Minor teeth misalignment can be concealed with dental bonding.
- If teeth roots become exposed due to gum disease, dental bonding can be employed to cover and protect the roots.
Dental bonding is most effective in solving minor cosmetic issues and is usually not used in cases of severe tooth damage or structural and orthodontic issues. For example, if you have severe misalignment or large gaps between the teeth, your dentist will likely recommend an orthodontic treatment, such as braces or Invisalign, rather than dental bonding. Severely broken teeth might require extraction and replacement with dental implants.
What Happens During the Procedure of Dental Bonding
Before the procedure of dental bonding, your doctor will discuss with you the results you want to achieve with it. Also, a shade of the material that is best suited for you will be chosen.
Prior to applying the bonding material, your dentist will remove a small portion of the tooth’s enamel to roughen up its enamel. This will allow the bonding material to adhere to the tooth securely. After the resin composite is applied, your dentist will mold it into the desired shape.
The next step is to harden the resin composite with a special light and then polish the tooth so that it looks natural. Your dentist will also make sure that the bonded tooth feels comfortable and natural in the mouth and adjust its shape if needed.
The procedure typically requires only a local anesthetic to alleviate any possible unpleasant sensations. Thus, you will be able to return to your normal daily activities right away. You might feel tooth sensitivity for several days after the bonding. However, such feelings will go away on their own as soon as the teeth recover from the procedure.
How Long Does Dental Bonding Last
Resin composite is a fairly durable dental material and can withstand a certain amount of chewing force for years to come. With proper care and adherence to some lifestyle rules, your dental bonding results can last for up to 10 years.
Alternatives for Dental Bonding
As we mentioned before, some cosmetic issues might not be solved with dental bonding and will require more lengthy orthodontic treatments. In other cases, you would benefit more from a treatment like dental veneers than dental bonding. Still, there are differences between the two procedures you should take into account:
- Dental veneers are an irreversible procedure because a more significant portion of the enamel is removed from the tooth to fit the veneer. Since teeth can not survive without their enamel, they will rely on the protective function of veneers. This means that once you get dental veneers, you will have to wear them for the rest of your life. Depending on the extent of the bonding, the procedure of dental bonding can be reversible.
- Dental veneers can be made of resin composite or porcelain. Porcelain veneers are typically more resilient, stain-resistant, and long-lasting than dental bonding or composite veneers. Porcelain veneers can last for up to 15 years.
- Dental veneers cover the entire front side of the tooth, while bonding is typically applied only to a part of the tooth.
Make an Appointment at Encino Family Dental
If you are considering dental bonding, make an appointment with a reliable cosmetic dentist at Encino Family Dental today. Our specialists will examine your dental issues and take into consideration your goals to offer you the most effective solution. We look forward to your visit.
