TL;DR
- Dental bonding involves the application of a tooth-colored resin putty to a chipped, discolored or misshapen tooth.
- The bonding process is as follows:
- The dentist matches the resin to the color of your teeth
- The tooth is roughened to prepare for application
- The resin composite is applied to the tooth surface
- The resin is cured
- The tooth is then cleaned up and polished
- Dental bonding stands out as a minimally invasive, cost-effective and fast procedure. However, it may not be as stain-resistent or durable as other restorative procedures.
The Easy Solution to The Perfect Smile
Although they’re made of solid bone, your teeth are fairly vulnerable to physical damage. A stray ball, a sudden tumble, an awkward collision: they’re all quick ways to end up with a chipped or broken tooth.
They can also rapidly change shape or wear down naturally. They may grow apart from one another or become discolored over time.
Although they’re a big cause of anxiety and other unpleasant feelings, most minor issues with tooth appearance can indeed be rectified with simple cosmetic dentistry procedures. Dental bonding is one such procedure.
Read on to learn what dental bonding is, when it’s suitable, and how it works.
What is Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding is a fairly easy cosmetic procedure that refreshes teeth with appearance-related concerns. The “bonding” is essentially the application of a resin-composite material to a tooth, changing its appearance, shape, and color.
The resin closely matches the color of natural teeth. The procedure is basically a makeover for any teeth you’d like to restore. The important consideration here is that dental bonding cannot treat any underlying issues like decay or abscesses. It can be used as a final step in their respective treatments to restore natural appearance.
When Dental Bonding is a Good Solution?
Dentists usually recommend dental bonding to:
- Modify the shape of the teeth
- Fix gaps between teeth
- Conceal minor chips or cracks in a tooth
- Correct tooth discoloration
What Happens in a Dental Bonding Procedure?
Here’s what the dental bonding procedure looks like, step-by-step:
- Shade Matching: Your dentist will use a shade guide to select a resin shade that corresponds with the color of your natural teeth. This resin is perfectly safe to use for this purpose and is used for many other dental procedures.
- Tooth Preparation: The tooth’s surface is then roughened using safe techniques like light air abrasion. This is done to create a greater surface area for the resin material to “bond” to.
- Application of Resin: The resin is then applied to the tooth surface to address the specific concern you have. The texture of the resin resembles putty so it’s easy to shape.
- Curing of Resin: Your dentist will then use a curing light to harden the resin and help it finally bond firmly to the surface of the tooth.
- Tooth Polishing: Once the resin is cured, final adjustments are made as needed, and the tooth is polished for a natural shine.
It takes about 30 to 60 minutes to finish resin bonding one tooth.
How Long Does Dental Bonding Last?
Dental bonding is known for being incredibly efficient, in more ways than one. The process can be completed within a single clinic visit. The resin bonding can last anywhere between three and 10 years.
Should it degrade, you can get it touched up or replaced.
What You Should Know Before Getting Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding is a fairly simple procedure that can easily refresh the appearance of teeth. Here are some notable advantages of dental bonding:
- Minimally Invasive: Many other restorative procedures (such as veneers) usually require irreversible adjustments to the tooth enamel. Dental bonding avoids this pre-requisite.
- Cost-Effective: Dental bonding generally requires a lower financial commitment than other restorative procedures.
- Range of Applications: Dental bonding is a great solution for a variety of aesthetic concerns, making it a versatile procedure.
- Fast Solution: Bonding is notably fast and stands out as an efficient method of tooth restoration.
However, here are some potential drawbacks to the procedure that you should consider:
- Although dental bonding is more cost and time effective, the material isn’t as stain resistant as porcelain.
- It is not as durable as veneers or crowns.
At Le Sueur Family Dental, we usually recommend dental bonding for minor cosmetic enhancements. For more serious or extensive changes, you may want to look at other restoration solutions.
Restoring Your Perfect Smile
Discolored or chipped teeth can take a toll on your confidence, and it’s always worth having an open, honest conversation with your dentist about your options. Treatments like dental bonding offer a quick, cost-effective way to improve the appearance and function of your teeth, helping you feel more confident in your smile again.
At Le Sueur Family Dental, we understand how personal concerns about tooth appearance can be. We strive to create a welcoming, judgment-free space where you can share your frustrations and goals openly. Whether one tooth has been bothering you or several, our team is here to help you explore the best solution for your needs.
Contact our clinic to speak with some of the most experienced dentists in Le Sueur and take the next step toward a smile you feel good about.
Address: 219 South 2nd Street, Le Sueur, MN 56058
Phone: (507) 665-6812
Email: office@lesueurfamilydental.com
FAQs
The cost of dental bonding depends on the number of teeth treated and the extent of the work, but it is generally one of the most affordable cosmetic dentistry options. However, dental bonding usually costs between $100 to $600 per tooth.
Multiple teeth can be bonded in a single visit. Since each tooth typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, your dentist may bond 2 to 4 teeth in a single visit.
Bonded teeth are durable for everyday use, but the resin is not as strong as natural enamel or porcelain. Avoiding habits like biting hard objects and maintaining good oral care can help prevent chips or damage.
