One of the easiest and least expensive of all dental restoration procedures, dental bonding is a go-to method for restoring chipped and cracked teeth and improving the overall appearance of patients’ smiles. If you live with chipped teeth or are unhappy with your smile because of gaps, talk to a dentist about bonding.
Before individuals undergo any cosmetic dentistry procedures, it is important that they understand the ins and outs of each one. Below is a brief overview of everything a patient should know about bonding.
Bonding refers to the application of a tooth-colored composite resin to the surface of the tooth. The procedure is called bonding because the material bonds seamlessly with the tooth’s surface. Bonding differs from veneers in that there is no need for a customized mold to achieve a proper fit. In fact, a dentist can start and finish the bonding process in just a single visit.
Bonding is often done to fix imperfections in the teeth. Most patients often elect to undergo bonding to improve the appearance of cracked, chipped or decayed teeth, though a dentist may also use the technique to hide discoloration, close large gaps or even elongate or change the shape of the teeth. In some cases, a dentist may use bonding as a substitute for amalgam fillings or to protect an exposed tooth root. Bonding is a great dental restoration technique because the resin can be shaped and polished to match the surrounding teeth.
There are several advantages to choosing bonding over another dental restoration procedure. For one, bonding is an affordable way to change the appearance of one’s smile. Two, unlike similar procedures, such as veneers or crowns, bonding requires little time in the dental chair. Most bonding appointments last between 30 and 60 minutes. Finally, bonding is a minimally invasive procedure that requires the dentist to remove little to none of the natural tooth.
Like most cosmetic dental procedures, bonding does come with a few disadvantages. For instance, the composite material used in bonding is not as stain-resistant as other cosmetic dentistry materials, such as veneers or crowns. It is also not as durable. Bonding resin is prone to chipping and breaking. It has also been known to pull away from the natural tooth.
How long a bonding restoration lasts is in large part determined by the location of the restoration on the tooth and how well a patient cares for it. Bonding that is done on the edge of the tooth likely will not last as long as that done on the face of the tooth due to biting forces. Hard and sticky foods can also reduce the lifespan of a bonding restoration. Typically, however, patients can expect tooth-colored bonding to last for between four and eight years.
Bonding is a great dental restoration option for fixing chipped, cracked and broken teeth. Patients who are interested in this popular cosmetic dentistry procedure should schedule a consultation with a dentist to determine their candidacy.
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