Tooth Bonding
Tooth bonding is a very inexpensive cosmetic dental service that can fix a fractured, chipped, odd shaped or discolored tooth and improves your smile. Sometimes the bonding material can even be used as a more attractive alternative to amalgam fillings. At Oakcrest Dental, we have used tooth bonding to fill in a gap that is too large between two teeth and make teeth look longer.
Tooth bonding is usually recommended for small cosmetic modifications and is often used to fix problems on the front teeth. To learn if tooth bonding is the right approach to fix your dental problem, a dentist will be happy to meet with you to discuss this procedure.
Common Questions About Tooth Bonding
What is tooth bonding?
Bonding is when a composite resin, colored to match your existing tooth, is attached to your tooth. The dentist applies the resin to your tooth, molds it and smooths it onto the tooth. A special light is used to harden the resin (or bond it) to your tooth. Finally, the dentist trims, shapes and polishes it to blend in with the rest of the tooth.
Can a tooth bonding be done in one visit?
Yes, this procedure can be completed in just one visit. It usually takes just 30 to 60 minutes. If you are having bonding done to multiple teeth, you might have to make additional dentist appointments.
How do I care for my bonded tooth?
The same oral hygiene habits you should use to take care of the rest of your teeth, brushing and flossing twice a day and seeing your dentist for regular checkups is all you need to do for your bonded tooth. Remember, the tooth under the bonding can still decay if the tooth is not taken care of.
Is there anything I need to avoid if I have a bonded tooth?
It’s important to realize that the bonded material can chip. So, it’s best to avoid chewing on ice or other hard objects. Never use your teeth as a bottle opener, if you have bonded teeth.
How long does tooth bonding last?
The answer depends on which teeth are bonded, but with proper care, tooth bonding can last up to 10 years.
Can tooth bonding be used on a child?
Yes, it’s considered an excellent and temporary way to fix a child’s chipped tooth or other problem. Once the child is fully grown, another cosmetic dental treatment, like porcelain veneers, might be recommended, depending on the location of the bonded teeth.