Dental bonding is a process used to repair and restore teeth. This dental treatment is a restoration option that can be completed in one visit and typically requires little to no anesthesia. Composite bonding is a tooth-colored material that your dentist applies to the tooth surface and then cures with light.
It falls under the field of cosmetic dentistry. Dental bonding can bring back the function of teeth, close gaps in teeth, and enhance the appearance of a person's smile. Easily say goodbye to unsightly uneven or cracked teeth in a short visit.
The most common reason for dental bonding is to repair cracked, chipped, or broken teeth. It can also fill in gaps between teeth, change the shape of teeth, cover up discoloration, and protect sensitive teeth.
Dental bonding can rebuild the surface of teeth, reshape them, or close up gaps. It is a versatile treatment that can correct a wide variety of dental problems. Dental bonding is also one of the most affordable tooth restoration procedures.
Benefits of using this cosmetic dentistry procedure to restore your smile include:
If you decide to get dental bonding, you may have to alter your eating and drinking habits for a short period. Dental bonding is still susceptible to staining from food and drink. Avoiding dark-colored drinks and food can help keep your newly bonded teeth looking their best.
Your cosmetic dentist will begin by numbing the area where dental bonding will occur. Then they'll apply a tooth-colored material made up of tiny resin particles mixed with glass ionomer cement to fill in chips, cracks, or other tiny imperfections on your teeth.
The appointment usually lasts between one and two hours. The dentist will clean the tooth and apply the composite bonding material. The material will be molded and shaped to the desired look and then hardened with a light.
The composite material bonds with your tooth enamel so well that no one can tell it's there unless you tell them. Dental bonding takes just about an hour to complete. However, you will come back to the office for follow-up appointments and scheduled aftercare instructions.
There is usually little to no pain after dental bonding. You may experience some sensitivity to hot and cold, but this should dissipate within a few days. It is important to avoid biting down on hard objects or chewing gum for the first 24 hours after dental bonding. Stick to a soft food diet the first day.
Continue to practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day. Avoid using toothpicks, which can damage the bonding material.
Dr. Ryan will check to make sure the dental bonding is holding up, and there are no signs of staining or other problems.
Dental bonding costs will vary depending on the dentist and the scope of the work that needs to be done. However, teeth bonding is typically less expensive than other restoration options such as dental crowns, dental veneers, and dental implants.
Dental bonding cost typically falls between $100 and $600 per tooth. The bonding cost does not include the dentist fee for the initial exam or x-rays.
Dental bonding can be completed in one visit to the dentist's office. Dental restorations such as crowns, veneers, and dental implants typically require two visits to complete both impressions (to create molds of your teeth) and the actual restoration work. So you will get to save time and money.
Dental bonding is not a lifelong repair solution for teeth. Over time the bond between the composite material and your tooth enamel may wear down. Your dental bonding dentist will need to redo the treatment about every three to ten years for this reason.
Dental bonding does not hurt because it's performed with a local numbing agent that completely blocks any pain from occurring until after the procedure is complete. Existing tooth enamel stays in tack - no drilling or filing is required, so there's no pain from that, either.Can Children Get Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding is typically not recommended for children because their teeth are still developing and growing. Dental Bonding is typically only used on adults or teens who have fully grown permanent teeth.
Dental Bonding is a better option for adults and teens with mature permanent teeth. This cosmetic procedure can be used on children's teeth if necessary, but it is best to address any structural issues first.
Dental braces can be used on dental bonding, but you must consult with your orthodontist. The braces could damage the composite material, but Invisalign may work better.
If you do choose to use braces on Dental bonding, your dentist may need to remove the Dental bonding and re-apply it when you are finished with your braces. Luckily a retainer can be made to keep your Dental bonding in place.
Dental bonding is often thought of as an excellent option for patients that are otherwise anxious about visiting their dentist. Dental bonding is preferable for many people because it is an affordable and fast restoration option that will bring back confidence to your smile in just one visit.
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