Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is a type of cosmetic procedure commonly used for improving the appearance of cracked, chipped, stained and misshapen teeth. Bonding is also useful for a variety of other dentistry functions. In cosmetic applications, a dental bonding treatment involves the application of a composite resin to make a patient’s teeth appear like intact teeth, including their color.

Dental bonds are somewhat like shallow versions of dental fillings. They are not as strong as dental crowns or veneers, which can be used for the repair or improvement of damaged teeth.

Your dentist may recommend that you undergo dental bonding if you are dealing with any of the following conditions:

• Tooth decay

• Exposed tooth root due to gum recession

• Stained teeth that appear brown, gray or yellow

• Minor chips or cracks not requiring more extensive procedures

• Misshapen teeth, including gaps between the teeth and teeth that are overly short

What To Expect

Dental bonding is a fairly fast process that should take no longer than one hour to complete, depending upon the number of teeth to be treated.

No anesthesia should be necessary unless your dental bonding is for filling a cavity. Your dentist will begin by brushing the surfaces of your teeth using a special etching solution to ensure proper bonding. They will apply the bonding material in a series of layers. Next, they will use a special light to harden and set the dental bonding material.

Finally, your dentist will be shaping, polishing, and smoothing your bonded teeth. This provides a slick finish so that the bonding material does not scrape your mouth or tongue.

After Your Dental Bonding

You should not experience any pain following your dental bonding procedure. Let us know right away if you are experiencing any unexpected pain, or if your treated tooth feels like it has sharp edges. Also inform us if your bite is uncomfortable. Adjustments can be made to ensure your comfort.

It is normal to experience some numbness in your gums, tongue, and mouth for a few hours after a bonding procedure. Until your anesthesia wears off, you may also have some difficulty talking and chewing.

You should be able to return home and resume your regular activities right after your dental bonding treatment. If you are given an anesthetic, you may be instructed to avoid eating and drinking until it has worn off. This is to prevent you from accidentally biting your tongue or mouth.

A dental bonding treatment will improve the appearance of both your teeth and smile. It is normal to experience some wear and tear, as with natural teeth. In a few years, you may need to undergo a replacement dental bonding procedure to repair any damage.

Keep up with your regular oral hygiene practices at home, including brushing and flossing your teeth.

You should also maintain your regular dental exam and cleaning appointments, at the frequency recommended, so that your dental bond remains intact.