Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is an alternative to veneers and can be used as a restorative procedure for teeth that are chipped, cracked, discolored, or misaligned.
What is Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding involves preparing the tooth for the procedure by lightly etching the surface and applying a bonding liquid. Once the liquid sets, a plastic resin is applied and sculpted into the desired shape. After setting, the resin is trimmed, smoothed, and polished to achieve a natural appearance.
Bonding is used to repair or enhance the appearance of a tooth. It is commonly employed in cosmetic procedures to cover chipped teeth, but it can also be used as an alternative to fillings, to close up spaces, or to fill in gaps.
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Dental bonding vs. veneers—which one should I get?
Dental bonding and veneers are used to fix broken teeth or cavities and can also be used to improve the overall appearance of healthy teeth. Veneers are applied to the entire tooth’s front surface, while bonding is only applied to a small portion. Both bonding and veneers can help improve your smile and address spacing issues. However, in most cases, dental bonding is used for emergencies. If you have a cracked or fractured tooth, bonding is the quickest way to repair it and only requires one appointment. Bonding is an excellent solution for a quick fix for a minor to moderate defect or cavity on your front tooth or teeth. Keep in mind that veneers are an alternative solution, and while they take more time and upfront investment, they provide a superior, longer-term cosmetic result.
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How long does dental bonding last?
Dental bonding doesn’t last as long as veneers, but it should last approximately ten years with proper care. This means avoiding hard candy, ice cubes, and similar substances that can break down and crack the composite material. The durability of the bonding also depends on the location in the mouth. For example, an imperfect bite or teeth grinding can cause the composite to break down faster.
More Questions?
Call our office if you have more questions about dental bonding and the procedure, and we'll be happy to answer them.
